Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Resources for Single Mothers in Mississippi

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box

• If you’re pregnant and uninsured: Apply for Mississippi Medicaid online at Access.ms.gov (state portal) or call 1-800-421-2408. Use the “MAGI Application” for pregnant women. Coverage for pregnancy runs through 12 months postpartum once approved. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• If you already have Mississippi Medicaid (Magnolia, Molina, or TrueCare): Ask your OB/midwife for a prescription and contact your plan for a covered breast pump. Member lines: Magnolia 1-866-912-6285, Molina 1-844-809-8438, TrueCare 1-800-230-2050. UnitedHealthcare left Mississippi Medicaid on July 1, 2025. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• If you are on WIC: Ask your WIC clinic about a free manual or electric pump and 24/7 lactation help through the Pacify app; scheduling line 1-800-338-6747; WIC main line 1-800-545-6747. (msdh.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
• If you have an ACA/Marketplace or employer plan: Most plans must cover a breast pump and lactation support with $0 copay for the duration of breastfeeding. Call your insurer or see HealthCare.gov breastfeeding benefits. (healthcare.gov)
• Work pumping rights: Under the federal PUMP Act, most workers are entitled to pump breaks and a non‑bathroom private space for 1 year after birth. See DOL Fact Sheet #73. (dol.gov)
• Emergency safety: If you are in danger, call 911. For confidential statewide help, call the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence at 1-800-898-3234, or use 211 Mississippi by dialing 211 (alternate 1-866-472-8265). (msdh.ms.gov, myunitedway.com)

---

What You Can Get Today In Mississippi

• Free pump through Medicaid: Mississippi Medicaid covers manual and electric breast pumps when medically necessary, with prior authorization and a prescription. Supplies for pumps are covered. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Free pump and lactation support through WIC: Mississippi WIC provides breast pumps (type based on need), peer counselors, and 24/7 video lactation help via Pacify for eligible clients. (msdh.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
• Free pump through private insurance/Marketplace: Most plans must cover a new or rental pump and lactation support without cost sharing for the duration of breastfeeding. (healthcare.gov, hrsa.gov)

---

Fast Path: How To Get A Free Breast Pump Through Mississippi Medicaid

Start here: If you’re pregnant and your income is at or below the limit in the table below, apply for Medicaid immediately—even if you’re early in pregnancy. Once on Medicaid, you can obtain a pump with a prescription.

Steps

• Ask your provider for a prescription: Request a script that specifies “manual or electric breast pump” and any medical reason (for electric, see criteria below). Include your Medicaid ID. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Choose an in‑network DME supplier: Your plan (Magnolia, Molina, TrueCare) can give you preferred suppliers and whether they ship or offer pick‑up. Call member services: Magnolia 1-866-912-6285, Molina 1-844-809-8438, TrueCare 1-800-230-2050. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Submit prior authorization: Mississippi Medicaid requires prior auth in the mother’s name with Medicaid ID and an estimated number of weeks/months needed for an electric pump. Your provider or supplier usually submits this. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Follow up: If you don’t get a status update within a few business days, call your health plan. If transportation to visits is a barrier, request Medicaid Non‑Emergency Transportation (NET). (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Pickup or delivery: Once approved, your supplier will arrange delivery or pickup and provide pump education.

What Medicaid Covers (from state rule)

• Manual pump (purchase) covered when used to promote or support lactation when direct breastfeeding isn’t sufficient or possible. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Electric pump (rental up to purchase, or purchase) covered when either infant has a qualifying condition (e.g., NICU stay longer than mom, cleft palate/lip, low birth weight, poor suck, failure to thrive), or mother has a qualifying condition (e.g., abscess, mastitis, short‑term hospitalization or medication requiring pumping and discarding, or other medical barriers to direct breastfeeding). (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Supplies (tubing, valves, storage items) for manual and electric pumps are covered. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Replacement rules: Medicaid allows DME replacement (e.g., due to irreparable damage or wear) based on documentation and cost‑effectiveness standards; pumps generally follow DME replacement timelines. (medicaid.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Denied or delayed: Ask your plan for the denial reason in writing and whether more documentation would help. If urgent (e.g., infant in NICU), ask your provider to request expedited review.
• No supplier available: Call your plan’s case management team and your local WIC clinic to request a temporary pump loan while the Medicaid order processes. (msdh.ms.gov)
• No Medicaid yet: Apply now at Access.ms.gov or call 1-800-421-2408; ask your clinic if they accept “pending Medicaid” and about short‑term pump options through WIC. (medicaid.ms.gov)

---

Mississippi Medicaid Income Limits for Pregnant Women (Effective March 1, 2025)

Mississippi covers pregnant women up to 194% FPL. The state posts exact monthly limits below (5% disregard included). Eligibility lasts through 12 months postpartum. (medicaid.ms.gov)

• Where to apply: Online at Access.ms.gov (state portal), by phone 1-800-421-2408, by fax 601-576-4164, or at a regional office. (medicaid.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Over income for Medicaid: You may still qualify for WIC and for a $0 breast pump through your Marketplace or employer plan. See the sections below. (healthcare.gov)

---

WIC in Mississippi: Free Pumps, 24/7 Lactation Help, and Monthly Food Benefits

Why WIC matters for pumping

• Breastfeeding support: Mississippi WIC provides peer counselors, access to designated breastfeeding experts (IBCLCs), breast pumps, shells/supplements when needed, and longer participation for breastfeeding parents. WIC now offers 24/7 video lactation support through the Pacify app for eligible clients. Call 1-800-338-6747 to schedule. (msdh.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
• Where to apply: Apply online or at your county health department; bring proof of identity, residence, and income, or show Medicaid/SNAP/TANF for automatic income eligibility. (msdh.ms.gov)

WIC Income Limits (2025–2026)

WIC uses 185% FPL. USDA’s 2025–2026 guidelines took effect July 1, 2025. Monthly thresholds are below. (federalregister.gov)

(For households >8, add the amount from USDA’s chart.) (fns.usda.gov)

WIC Fruit & Vegetable Monthly Benefit (FY 2025)

• Children: $26
• Pregnant & postpartum: $47
• Fully/mostly breastfeeding: $52

(Effective Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025; state agencies must implement at these levels.) (fns.usda.gov)

Extra help

• Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program: One‑time WIC produce benefit redeemable at authorized farmers markets; benefits are typically redeemable until October. (mdac.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Clinic can’t provide a pump immediately: Ask for a manual pump as a stop‑gap, use Pacify for technique help, and ask your hospital lactation team to loan a hospital‑grade pump if you’re separated from your infant. (msdh.ms.gov)

---

Private Insurance & Marketplace Plans: $0 Pump and Lactation Support

• Coverage: Most non‑grandfathered plans (including Marketplace plans on HealthCare.gov) must cover a breast pump (rental or new), supplies, and lactation counseling without cost‑sharing for the duration of breastfeeding, based on your provider’s recommendation. (healthcare.gov, hrsa.gov)
• When to enroll: Open Enrollment typically runs Nov 1–Jan 15 on HealthCare.gov. Childbirth creates a Special Enrollment Period; pregnancy itself generally does not on the federal marketplace. See HealthCare.gov enrollment date guide. (healthcare.gov)
• How to use it: Ask your OB/midwife for a prescription and follow your plan’s rules for DME suppliers. Many plans ship pumps directly after verification.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Plan says “not until after delivery”: Ask your provider to note medical need (e.g., late‑preterm risk, anticipated separation) and request earlier release. If denied, file an appeal citing HRSA breastfeeding preventive services coverage. (hrsa.gov)

---

Mississippi Work Rights While You Pump

• PUMP Act (federal): Most employees have the right to reasonable break time and a private, non‑bathroom space to pump, up to 1 year after birth; breaks may need to be paid if you’re not fully relieved of duty. DOL Fact Sheets #73 and #73A explain the rules. (dol.gov)
• PWFA (federal): Employers with 15+ employees must provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions (which include lactation), unless undue hardship. See EEOC PWFA guidance. (eeoc.gov)
• Mississippi law on breastfeeding in public: You may breastfeed anywhere you’re allowed to be, without needing to cover. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Child care facilities: Licensed Mississippi child care facilities must provide a sanitary, non‑toilet‑stall space with a chair, outlet, nearby running water, and a refrigerator to store expressed milk; staff must be trained in safe milk handling. (codes.findlaw.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• No space/time at work: Document requests in writing, cite the PUMP Act and PWFA, and contact the U.S. Department of Labor Wage & Hour Division or EEOC for help if your employer refuses. (dol.gov, eeoc.gov)

---

Program Snapshot Table: Where Free Pumps and Maternity Support Come From

---

Choosing a Pump: Quick Comparison

---

Step‑By‑Step: Filing A Strong Pump Request (Medicaid)

• Get the prescription right: Include diagnosis/reason (e.g., “infant requires hospitalization beyond mother” or “maternal mastitis”), pump type, and expected duration of use. Include mom’s Medicaid ID. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Use the right contact: Submit through your plan’s DME pathway; keep the fax confirmation or portal screenshot.
• Ask for supplies: Request needed tubing, valves, and storage items—they’re covered. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Transportation: If you need a ride to pick up a pump or attend lactation visits, request NET. (medicaid.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Appeal: You can appeal health‑plan denials. If your infant’s health could be affected, ask your provider to submit an urgent appeal with clinical notes.

---

Marketplace Coverage And Deadlines (for those over Medicaid limits)

• Open Enrollment: Nov 1–Jan 15; enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1 start, or by Jan 15 for Feb 1 start. Outside these dates, childbirth triggers a Special Enrollment Period. See the federal date guide. (healthcare.gov)
• Why it matters: Marketplace plans must cover $0 pumps and lactation support. If you’re pregnant now and uninsured, apply for Medicaid first (faster, broader maternity coverage); if over income, enroll in a Marketplace plan at the next opportunity or after the baby arrives. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Can’t wait for Open Enrollment: Check if you qualify for another Special Enrollment Period (move, household change) and seek care at a Federally Qualified Health Center while you line up coverage.

---

Your Rights To Breastfeed—Mississippi And Federal Protections

• Breastfeed anywhere: State law confirms your right to breastfeed in any public or private place you’re otherwise allowed to be. (msdh.ms.gov)
• At work: The federal PUMP Act covers pumping breaks and a private space (not a bathroom). The PWFA requires reasonable accommodations for pregnancy and related conditions (including lactation) for covered employers. (dol.gov, eeoc.gov)
• Child care settings: Licensed facilities must offer a sanitary space with chair, outlet, nearby running water, and a refrigerator, plus trained staff for safe milk handling. (codes.findlaw.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Enforcement: For pump‑at‑work issues, contact DOL Wage and Hour. For discrimination/accommodation problems, contact the EEOC. (dol.gov, eeoc.gov)

---

Real‑World Example

• Scenario: A Jackson mom with Magnolia Health delivered a late‑preterm baby who remained in the NICU. Her OB wrote a prescription citing “infant hospitalized longer than mother.” Magnolia authorized an electric pump rental, and the DME shipped within days. She also added Pacify through WIC for latch coaching once the baby came home. (medicaid.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)

---

Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes And Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Your coverage and rights are the same; ask for an inclusive lactation consultant if that helps you feel comfortable. WIC provides language assistance and welcomes diverse families; call 1-800-545-6747 for interpreter help. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: If appointments are hard to reach, request Medicaid NET rides; WIC peer counselors can provide remote support via Pacify. Ask your DME for accessible pump setups (hands‑free kits). (medicaid.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: VA maternity coordinators and TRICARE plans typically cover pumps; if you’re also Mississippi‑based and income‑eligible, WIC support stacks with VA benefits.
• Immigrant or refugee single moms: Apply for WIC if pregnant/postpartum or have children under five; WIC offers language assistance and does not require you to be on Medicaid to get help. Call 1-800-545-6747. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians offers WIC, breastfeeding support, and peer counselors through the Choctaw Health Center. Call 601-389-4510 (main) or WIC breastfeeding lines 601-389-4520 / 601-389-4519. (fns.usda.gov, choctawhealthcenter.org)
• Rural single moms: Use the WIC Pacify app for 24/7 video lactation support and Medicaid NET rides for medical appointments. (msdh.ms.gov, medicaid.ms.gov)
• Single fathers: If you’re the caregiver of an infant, you can receive WIC for your baby and pumps may still be issued for the child’s feeding needs; check with your WIC clinic. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Language access: Mississippi WIC provides interpreter services upon request; call 1-800-545-6747. (msdh.ms.gov)

---

Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups

• Mississippi Breastfeeding Coalition—MS MILC League: Free peer breastfeeding groups (virtual and in‑person) across Mississippi. Meeting info and facilitator contacts available here. (msbfc.org)
• La Leche League Alliance (ALMA Area): Free mother‑to‑mother lactation support; find groups/leaders serving Alabama‑Louisiana‑Mississippi‑Arkansas. (lllalliance.org)
• Mississippi WIC Local Agencies: Find your county WIC clinic and contacts. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Domestic violence safety and shelter: Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence (statewide hotline 1-800-898-3234); MSDH’s statewide crisis resource list includes additional hotlines and shelters. (msdh.ms.gov)

---

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Waiting until after delivery to apply for Medicaid: Apply as soon as pregnancy is confirmed to lock in coverage and avoid pump delays. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Missing prior authorization details: Electric pump requests must be in the mother’s name and include her Medicaid ID and estimated use period; missing info can stall approvals. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Not asking for supplies: Tubing/valves and other pump supplies are covered with manual and electric pumps under Medicaid. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Skipping lactation help: Technique problems can tank supply. Use WIC peer counselors or Pacify 24/7 video support early. (msdh.ms.gov)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Apply for Medicaid: How to Apply (state portal) or call 1-800-421-2408. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Medicaid CCO member services: Magnolia 1-866-912-6285; Molina 1-844-809-8438; TrueCare 1-800-230-2050. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• WIC scheduling: 1-800-338-6747; language assistance 1-800-545-6747; Pacify lactation support via WIC. (msdh.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
• Work pumping rights: DOL PUMP Act Fact Sheets. (dol.gov)
• Breastfeed in public: Legal in Mississippi. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Statewide help line: Call 211 (alternate 1-866-472-8265) for local resources. (myunitedway.com)

---

Application Checklist

• Proof of pregnancy: Prenatal visit summary or provider note (for Medicaid; often helpful for WIC).
• ID and residency: Driver’s license/state ID and a recent bill or lease (for WIC).
• Income proof: Recent pay stubs or W‑2s (unless you’re adjunctively eligible via Medicaid/SNAP/TANF for WIC). (msdh.ms.gov)
• Medicaid pump request: Prescription, mother’s Medicaid ID, estimated duration of use, and a qualifying medical reason if requesting electric pump. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Transport: If needed, note your appointment dates and request Medicaid NET. (medicaid.ms.gov)

---

Mississippi‑Specific FAQs

1. Who qualifies for a free pump through Mississippi Medicaid: Pregnant or postpartum members when medically necessary, with prior authorization and a provider prescription; supplies are covered. Electric pumps are approved based on listed infant or maternal criteria in state policy. (medicaid.ms.gov)
2. Can I get a pump before delivery: Plans may vary. Medicaid policy allows coverage when medical criteria are met (e.g., expected separation or maternal conditions). Ask your provider to document need and request authorization. (medicaid.ms.gov)
3. How long does Medicaid coverage last after birth: Mississippi provides 12 months postpartum coverage for pregnant members. (medicaid.ms.gov)
4. What income counts for WIC: WIC uses 185% FPL; the 2025–26 monthly limit for a family of three is $4,109. (See full table above.) (federalregister.gov)
5. How much are WIC fruit & vegetable benefits: Children $26\ast \ast ;pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47; fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 per month in FY 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
6. Which Medicaid plan do I call for a pump: As of July 2025, call Magnolia 1-866-912-6285, Molina 1-844-809-8438, or TrueCare 1-800-230-2050. UnitedHealthcare is no longer a Medicaid plan in Mississippi. (medicaid.ms.gov)
7. Is breastfeeding in public legal in Mississippi: Yes. State law affirms your right to breastfeed anywhere you are authorized to be. (msdh.ms.gov)
8. What if I can’t get to appointments: Medicaid provides Non‑Emergency Transportation for eligible members. Call your plan or ask your clinic to set up NET. (medicaid.ms.gov)
9. Does WIC offer pumps if I’m exclusively pumping: Yes—WIC provides pumps based on individual need. Ask your WIC clinic; Pacify counselors can also advise on pump fit and technique. (msdh.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)
10. What are my rights to pump at work: Most employees are entitled to pump breaks and a private space (not a bathroom) for 1 year after birth under the PUMP Act; many are also protected by the PWFA for lactation accommodations. (dol.gov, eeoc.gov)

---

Contacts & Links Table (Bookmark This)

---

Regional Notes (Mississippi)

• Delta & North MS: Peer groups via MS MILC League (Delta, Washington, Oxford, Lowndes). Use WIC at county health departments; ask about pump loans if you’re far from a supplier. (msbfc.org)
• Gulf Coast & Pine Belt: MILC League groups in Hancock, Jackson, Stone, and George counties offer weekly in‑person support; WIC clinics can activate Pacify on your phone the same day. (msbfc.org)
• Jackson Metro: WIC Ridgeland office lines (601) 991-6000 / 1-800-545-6747 can point you to your closest clinic. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Choctaw communities: Choctaw Health Center provides WIC and lactation support; call 601-389-4510 (main) and breastfeeding lines above. (fns.usda.gov)

---

Practical Realities

• Timelines vary: Authorizations can move fast with complete documentation; ask your clinic to mark urgent when medically appropriate.
• Suppliers differ: If one DME is back‑ordered, ask your plan for additional in‑network options.
• Return‑to‑work planning: Before you go back, talk to HR with a written plan for pumping times/space; bringing the DOL Fact Sheet often speeds cooperation. (dol.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Mississippi Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

---

Disclaimer

General information only: This article is informational and not legal, financial, or clinical advice.

Program changes: Rules, dollar amounts, and provider lists change. Always verify details with the Mississippi Division of Medicaid, your health plan, WIC, or your employer’s HR.

Security: Do not email or text your Social Security number, Medicaid ID, or medical records to unknown parties. Use official state portals and verified phone numbers listed above.

---

Appendix Tables

Breast Pump Coverage Triggers Under Mississippi Medicaid (Policy Highlights)

Mississippi WIC Benefits Snapshot (FY 2025)

(See USDA memo for FY 2025 CVB amounts; WIC breastfeeding support via MSDH.) (fns.usda.gov, msdh.ms.gov)

Key Enrollment Deadlines And Contacts

Mississippi Laws & Workplace Rights Overview

(dol.gov, eeoc.gov, msdh.ms.gov, codes.findlaw.com)

---

If You’re In Crisis Right Now

• Domestic violence hotline (statewide): 1-800-898-3234 (MCADV)
• Find help near you: Dial 211 (alternate 1-866-472-8265) for housing, food, and emergency referrals in Mississippi. (msdh.ms.gov, myunitedway.com)
• Medical emergency: Call 911.
• Transportation for medical care (Medicaid): Ask your plan for NET rides. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• WIC lactation now: If already on WIC, use Pacify for immediate video help. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Not on WIC yet: Call 1-800-338-6747 to schedule. (msdh.ms.gov)
• New to Medicaid: Apply online and call 1-800-421-2408 if you need help with the application. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• After July 1, 2025 health plan change: If you had UnitedHealthcare, you were moved to Magnolia, Molina, or TrueCare—call the new plan’s number above for pump authorizations. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Case management: Ask your plan for a maternity or complex‑care case manager; they can fast‑track authorizations and coordinate DME delivery.
• Document everything: Keep copies of prescriptions, prior‑auth numbers, and shipping confirmations in your phone.

---

Reality Check

Getting a pump isn’t always “one phone call.” Mississippi Medicaid requires prior authorization for many electric pumps, and suppliers sometimes face back‑orders. WIC clinics may triage to those with medical need first. Use the steps and contacts above to keep your request moving, ask for a manual pump as a temporary backup, and lean on Pacify/WIC or a peer group for practical techniques while you wait. (medicaid.ms.gov, msdh.ms.gov)

---

By following the right pathway (Medicaid, WIC, or your private plan) and using the state‑specific contacts, you can secure a pump and the support to use it well—without paying out of pocket.

---

🏛️More Mississippi Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Mississippi

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery