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Free Breast Pumps and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Missouri

Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Resources for Single Mothers in Missouri

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help first

If you need urgent assistance, use these now.


  • Call 2‑1‑1 for local resources: dial 211 from any phone or call 1‑800‑427‑4626 for United Way’s help line in most Missouri counties. They will connect you to nearby clinics, WIC offices, diaper and crib programs, shelters, and transportation same‑day where available.
  • WIC Participant Support Line: call 1‑800‑392‑8209 to find the closest Missouri WIC clinic for a breast pump or breastfeeding help.
  • Apply for MO HealthNet by phone: call 1‑855‑373‑9994 to start Medicaid or Show‑Me Healthy Babies coverage by phone in minutes. If you already applied and haven’t heard back, call the Family Support Division Information Center at 1‑855‑373‑4636.
  • Insurance complaint or appeal help: call the Missouri Department of Commerce & Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1‑800‑726‑7390 for help if a private health plan denies a pump or lactation visits.
  • Work pumping rights questions: call the U.S. Department of Labor helpline 1‑866‑487‑9243 for answers about your rights to pump at work under the federal PUMP Act.

These lines are staffed during business hours. If you cannot reach someone, leave a message and try again the next business day. For health emergencies, dial 911.

Quick help box

  • Fastest way to get a free breast pump: if you are on MO HealthNet Managed Care, call your plan’s number on the back of your card and ask for “maternity benefits—breast pump.” See the plan numbers below. Most plans ship a personal electric pump near the end of pregnancy; some ship up to 30 days before your due date with a provider’s prescription. See Home State Health’s policy as an example. (dss.mo.gov, homestatehealth.com)
  • Not on Medicaid yet: apply for MO HealthNet or Show‑Me Healthy Babies (SMHB) right away. Applications can be done online, by phone at 1‑855‑373‑9994, or by paper. Standard processing can take up to 45 days, but pregnancy cases are often faster. Coverage is retroactive to the first day of the application month if you were pregnant then. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Need a pump and not insured: call Missouri WIC at 1‑800‑392‑8209. WIC local agencies issue manual, personal electric, or hospital‑grade loaner pumps based on a breastfeeding assessment. Income up to 185% FPL qualifies; many moms qualify automatically if they already get SNAP or TANF. (health.mo.gov)
  • Have an employer plan: the Affordable Care Act requires most plans to cover a breast pump and lactation support with no copay. Call your plan and ask “breastfeeding benefits—breast pump.” If denied, request an appeal and contact DCI for an external review. (healthcare.gov, insurance.mo.gov)
  • No safe place for baby to sleep: the Safe Cribs for Missouri program provides a free portable crib and safe‑sleep education if you qualify. Call 1‑800‑835‑5465 (TEL‑LINK) to find your local provider. (dese.mo.gov)

What this guide covers

  • How to get a no‑cost breast pump in Missouri through MO HealthNet Managed Care, private insurance, and WIC.
  • Maternity coverage programs that unlock benefits for single mothers, including MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women and Show‑Me Healthy Babies.
  • Exact 2025 WIC income numbers and current WIC fruit‑and‑vegetable benefit amounts.
  • Workplace pumping rights, leave options, and appeals if an insurer says no.
  • Local, real‑world resources for pumps, cribs, diapers, and breastfeeding support across Missouri.

Sourcing follows our Editorial Standards—links go to state and federal agencies or established nonprofits. See “About This Guide” at the end for details and update cadence.

The three fastest paths to a free breast pump in Missouri

1) MO HealthNet Managed Care (Medicaid)

Start here if you are enrolled in any of these plans through MO HealthNet Managed Care: Home State Health, Healthy Blue, or UnitedHealthcare Community Plan.

  • What to do first: Call your plan’s maternity or member services line and ask for “breast pump benefit.” Plans can ship a standard personal electric pump (double electric in most cases) with a provider’s prescription. Home State Health notes pumps may be shipped 30 days before delivery; Healthy Blue states it “may cover” a standard electric pump; UnitedHealthcare lists an electronic pump benefit and a direct line to order. (homestatehealth.com, healthybluemo.com, uhc.com)
  • Plan phone numbers:
    • Home State Health: 1‑855‑694‑4663
    • Healthy Blue: 1‑833‑388‑1407
    • UnitedHealthcare Community Plan: 1‑866‑292‑0359
    • Managed Care Enrollment Helpline: 1‑800‑348‑6627 if you need help changing plans
      (These are MO HealthNet Managed Care contacts.) (dss.mo.gov)
  • Eligibility reality check: You must be enrolled in MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women or SMHB (see below) and assigned to Managed Care. Coverage is active once FSD approves you and your plan sends your ID card. If you applied but haven’t heard back after 45 days, call 1‑855‑373‑4636 or check online. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Required documents: A prescription from your prenatal provider; your plan may also require a due date and shipping address.
  • Timeline expectations: Many members receive a pump within 7–14 days after the plan or DME supplier gets the prescription. Home State Health routes through its supplier portal; UHC members are directed to Aeroflow at 1‑844‑867‑9890. (homestatehealth.com, uhc.com)
  • Common pitfalls:
    • Ordering too early: some plans ship only within 30 days of your due date.
    • Buying retail first: you may not be reimbursed if you buy before authorization—call first.
    • Wrong supplier: use a plan‑approved DME supplier to avoid denials. (uhc.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your plan for a “coverage determination” in writing and file a plan appeal. If it’s a fully insured private plan, contact DCI’s Consumer Affairs at 1‑800‑726‑7390 and request an external review. For MO HealthNet Managed Care issues, call MO HealthNet Participant Services at 1‑800‑392‑2161 for help escalating. (insurance.mo.gov, dss.mo.gov)

2) Private employer or Marketplace plan

  • Your right to a pump with no copay: Most ACA‑compliant plans must cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment (including a breast pump) for the duration of breastfeeding with no cost‑sharing. Plans can set reasonable rules (manual vs. electric, purchase vs. rental, timing), but they must follow your provider’s medical recommendations. (healthcare.gov)
  • How to apply through your plan: Call the member number on your card and ask for “breastfeeding benefits—breast pump.” Many carriers use national suppliers like Byram, Edgepark, or Aeroflow and require a prescription with EDD. (uhc.com)
  • Appeals that work: If you’re denied, ask for the denial letter, then file an internal appeal with your plan. If it’s a fully insured plan issued in Missouri, you can request a state‑run external review—binding on the insurer, typically completed within 20–45 days or 72 hours if urgent. Call 1‑800‑726‑7390 for help. (insurance.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for WIC and request a pump based on your work or school schedule, or apply for MO HealthNet or SMHB if your income fits. (health.mo.gov)

3) Missouri WIC

  • What WIC provides: Missouri WIC local agencies issue various pumps based on a breastfeeding assessment:
    • Manual pumps for occasional separation
    • Hospital‑grade multi‑user pumps on loan for NICU, premie, multiples, or supply issues
    • Personal double‑electric pumps, often given to moms exclusively breastfeeding at 4 weeks postpartum or who are separated ~32 hours per week for work or school
      Pumps are free to eligible participants; some agencies may take a refundable deposit for hospital‑grade loaners. (health.mo.gov)
  • How to apply: Call your nearest WIC clinic or the WIC Participant Support Line at 1‑800‑392‑8209; you can also use TEL‑LINK at 1‑800‑835‑5465 to find a clinic. WIC eligibility is up to 185% FPL; SNAP and TANF participants qualify automatically. Bring ID and proof of income; a brief health/nutrition assessment is part of sign‑up. (health.mo.gov)
  • 2025 WIC income limits (effective June 1, 2025): see the table below for gross monthly amounts. (health.mo.gov)
  • Extra food money every month: WIC issues a fruit‑and‑vegetable benefit (CVB). For FY 2025, amounts are 26∗∗foreachchild,∗∗26** for each child, **47 for pregnant/postpartum moms, and $52 for fully or mostly breastfeeding moms, adjusted annually for inflation. (fns.usda.gov)
  • Common pitfalls:
    • Waiting until after delivery: start with WIC during pregnancy to line up support and a pump if you’ll return to work.
    • Missing appointments: benefits load monthly to your eWIC card; reschedule quickly if you can’t make it. (health.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your delivery hospital about pump rentals and request a WIC peer counselor referral. Missouri also recognizes “Breastfeeding Friendly Worksites” and can help your employer set up a pumping space. (health.mo.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Program or pathway Who it’s for What you get How to apply Typical timeline
MO HealthNet Managed Care benefits Moms approved for MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women or SMHB and assigned to a managed care plan Standard personal electric pump with prescription; some plans ship up to 30 days pre‑delivery Call plan: Home State 1‑855‑694‑4663; Healthy Blue 1‑833‑388‑1407; UHC 1‑866‑292‑0359 About 7–14 days after supplier receives Rx (varies) (dss.mo.gov, homestatehealth.com, healthybluemo.com, uhc.com)
Private/Marketplace plan Moms with employer or ACA plan Pump and lactation counseling with no copay (plan rules vary) Call the number on your card and ask “breastfeeding benefits—breast pump” Often 1–2 weeks after supplier authorization (healthcare.gov)
WIC Pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding moms; infants and kids to age 5 up to 185% FPL Manual, personal electric, or hospital‑grade loaner pumps based on assessment; monthly WIC foods and CVB Call 1‑800‑392‑8209 or 1‑800‑835‑5465 (TEL‑LINK) Same week for assessment; pump timing depends on need and clinic inventory (health.mo.gov)

Missouri maternity coverage that unlocks pump and prenatal benefits

MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women (MPW)

  • Eligibility basics: Income up to 201% FPL with the 5% disregard (base MPW standard is 196% FPL). Household size includes unborn babies. Citizenship or qualified status applies to the mother. (dss.mo.gov)
  • Coverage period: When approved during pregnancy, MPW coverage begins the first day of the month you qualify, including prior months if you were pregnant. Missouri implemented 12 months of postpartum coverage for women enrolled in MO HealthNet, replacing the old 60‑day limit. (dss.mo.gov)
  • How to apply fast: Apply online, by phone at 1‑855‑373‑9994, or submit a paper application. If you do not hear back after 45 days, call 1‑855‑373‑4636 to check status. Coverage will be through a managed care plan after you are approved. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • Why MPW matters for pumps: Once enrolled, your managed care plan processes your breast pump request with a prescription and ships it through their DME supplier network. See plan contacts in the cheat sheet above. (dss.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your MPW application is denied for income or citizenship, ask the worker to screen you for Show‑Me Healthy Babies (SMHB), which covers the unborn child up to 300% FPL. (dss.mo.gov)

Show‑Me Healthy Babies (SMHB)

  • Who it helps: Pregnant Missourians denied MPW due to income or citizenship. SMHB covers prenatal care, labor and delivery for the unborn child. If denied because income is over MPW but at or below 300% FPL, mom typically gets 60‑day postpartum coverage; if the MPW denial was due to citizenship, postpartum is limited to hospital discharge or a single postpartum visit. (dss.mo.gov)
  • How to apply: Submit an MPW application first; if denied, the agency screens for SMHB. Same application routes to the program automatically. Apply online or by phone at 1‑855‑373‑9994. (dss.mo.gov, mydss.mo.gov)
  • Pump access: Once approved and assigned to a managed care plan, request a pump through your plan like MPW members do. (dss.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If coverage is pending and you need a pump now, ask your WIC clinic for a temporary loaner or manual pump, especially if your baby is hospitalized, premature, or you are building supply. (health.mo.gov)

Missouri WIC in numbers you can use

Missouri WIC income guidelines — effective June 1, 2025

Income is gross (before taxes). Eligibility is up to 185% FPL.

Family size Monthly income
1 $2,413
2 $3,261
3 $4,109
4 $4,957
5 $5,805
6 $6,653
7 $7,501
8 $8,349

See full weekly, biweekly, and annual amounts on Missouri DHSS. (health.mo.gov)

WIC monthly fruit‑and‑vegetable cash‑value benefit (CVB) — FY 2025

Participant Monthly CVB amount
Child 1–4 years $26
Pregnant or postpartum $47
Fully or mostly breastfeeding $52

USDA confirms these amounts for Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)

How to apply: Call 1‑800‑392‑8209 or 1‑800‑835‑5465 (TEL‑LINK) for clinic locations and appointments. (health.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your hospital lactation team about a short‑term hospital‑grade rental and get on the WIC peer counselor list for callback support. (health.mo.gov)

Workplace pumping rights and leave you can actually use

  • Your right to pump at work: Under the federal PUMP Act, most workers are entitled to reasonable break time and a space that is not a bathroom, shielded from view and free from intrusion, to express milk for one year after birth. This applies to many job types, including hourly, salaried, and traditionally uncovered roles. If your employer says no, file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor. (dol.gov)
  • Reasonable pregnancy accommodations: The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act requires most employers with 15+ employees to provide reasonable accommodations (extra breaks, water, light duty, temporary schedule changes) unless it causes undue hardship. Contact EEOC if denied. (eeoc.gov)
  • Job‑protected leave: The federal FMLA provides up to 12 workweeks of job‑protected unpaid leave for birth and bonding if you’re eligible (worked 12 months, 1,250 hours, and your employer has 50+ employees within 75 miles). Your group health insurance must continue while you’re on FMLA. (dol.gov)
  • Breastfeeding in public in Missouri: State law protects your right to breastfeed “with discretion” in any public or private place you’re allowed to be and excuses nursing mothers from jury duty with documentation. (health.mo.gov)
  • If you face discrimination at work: Contact the Missouri Commission on Human Rights at 1‑877‑781‑4236 or 573‑751‑3325 within 180 days. (labor.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Document everything in writing, talk to HR, and consider filing a complaint with DOL (pumping breaks) or EEOC/MCHR (accommodations or discrimination). Keep copies of schedules, texts, and emails. (dol.gov, eeoc.gov)

Step‑by‑step: applying for MO HealthNet or SMHB quickly

  • Apply right now: online at the state portal, by phone at 1‑855‑373‑9994, or by mailing/faxing a paper form. If you’re pregnant now, eligibility can start the first day of the month you applied. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • If you don’t hear back: if you receive nothing from FSD after 45 days, call 1‑855‑373‑4636 or use the DSS Chat on the portal to check status. (mydss.mo.gov)
  • After approval: you’ll be enrolled in a managed care plan; call the Managed Care Enrollment Helpline at 1‑800‑348‑6627 if you need to change plans or find a PCP. Then request your breast pump. (dss.mo.gov)
  • Documents to gather: photo ID, proof of Missouri residency, proof of income, doctor’s note confirming pregnancy and due date, and any current insurance information.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the caseworker to screen you for SMHB if MPW is denied. If you still can’t get coverage and you need a pump urgently, ask WIC for a temporary pump loan. (dss.mo.gov, health.mo.gov)

Application checklist

Use this to avoid delays.

  • Proof of pregnancy and due date: provider note or ultrasound with your name and EDD.
  • Prescription for pump: request it during a prenatal visit; ask for “personal double electric breast pump” if that’s what your plan supplies.
  • Proof of Missouri address: lease, utility, or mail.
  • Proof of income: recent pay stubs, benefit letters, or self‑employment records.
  • Insurance cards: if any.
  • Contact numbers written down: plan member services, WIC clinic, and your prenatal clinic.
  • Back‑up plan ready: a list of local WIC and hospital lactation contacts if shipping is delayed.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Ordering retail before checking coverage: private and Medicaid plans often will not reimburse a pump bought out‑of‑network.
  • Waiting until postpartum: order during the third trimester; many plans ship near the due date.
  • Missing calls from suppliers: answer unknown numbers after you submit a request—DMEs often call from different area codes.
  • Not appealing a denial: you have rights to internal appeals and, for fully insured plans, Missouri’s external review that can decide within 72 hours if urgent. (insurance.mo.gov)
  • Skipping WIC because of income confusion: check the 2025 table; many single moms qualify even if working. (health.mo.gov)

Timelines that are realistic

Task Expectation
MO HealthNet application Up to 45 days to process; pregnancy cases often faster; coverage can start the first day of the application month if you were pregnant then. (mydss.mo.gov)
Managed care pump order Usually 7–14 days from supplier receipt of prescription; some plans ship within 30 days pre‑delivery. (homestatehealth.com)
External insurance review Decision within 20 days after all records are received; 72 hours if expedited. (insurance.mo.gov)
WIC intake appointment Often same week; pump timing depends on need and local inventory. (health.mo.gov)

Missouri breastfeeding‑friendly care settings

  • Baby‑Friendly designated facilities: Baby‑Friendly USA lists hospitals meeting international standards for infant feeding care. Use the state finder to check facilities near you. (babyfriendlyusa.org)
  • Show‑Me 5 hospitals: Missouri DHSS recognizes hospitals that implement five key, evidence‑based breastfeeding practices (early initiation, rooming‑in, breastmilk‑only feeds unless medically needed, no pacifiers, and referrals to support groups). See the current Missouri list. (health.mo.gov)
  • Hospital tip: Ask your delivering hospital if they rent hospital‑grade pumps and whether they have IBCLCs on staff. Bring your insurance card(s) to the birth for any needed rentals.

Local free supplies that help stretch your budget

  • Safe Cribs for Missouri: free portable crib and safe‑sleep education for low‑income families who qualify. Call 1‑800‑835‑5465 (TEL‑LINK) to be referred; some county health departments run their own crib programs as well. (dese.mo.gov, misscohealth.com)
  • Diapers:
    • St. Louis Area Diaper Bank posts current library pickup partners and emergency distribution sites.
    • HappyBottoms supplies Kansas City metro families through partner agencies across MO/KS; check the site for locations and times.
      Phone numbers vary by site; examples include Catholic Charities KCMO 816‑221‑4377 and Community Assistance Council 816‑763‑3277 listed on the distribution page. (stldiaperbank.org, happybottoms.org)
  • Nurses for Newborns (St. Louis region): home‑visiting nurses for medically fragile infants or high‑risk moms; call 314‑544‑3433. (nursesfornewborns.org)
  • First Chance for Children (Mid‑MO): Safe Cribs program and baby supplies for Boone and surrounding counties; call 573‑777‑1815. (firstchanceforchildren.org)
  • Car seats: many county health departments and Safe Kids coalitions offer free or low‑cost seats with installation checks (examples include Platte, Stone, Madison, and Reynolds counties). See MoDOT’s car seat check page or your local health department site. (modot.org, plattecountyhealthdept.com, stonecountyhealthdepartment.com, madisoncountymohealth.com, reynoldscopublichealth.org)
  • La Leche League, Greater St. Louis: peer support meetings and a warm‑line at 314‑424‑3900. Many communities host LLL groups—ask your WIC clinic for a referral. (lllstl.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 and ask for “diaper bank,” “crib program,” or “car seat program” referrals in your county. Many programs rely on grants and may have wait lists.

Diverse communities

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: inclusive lactation and parenting support is available through WIC peer counselors and La Leche League groups. When speaking with a clinic or employer, state your preferred name and family structure—staff should respect it under nondiscrimination policies. Action step: ask your WIC clinic for a peer counselor who is comfortable supporting diverse families. (health.mo.gov)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: ask your managed care plan about in‑home lactation visits, transportation to WIC, and any durable medical equipment accommodations. MO HealthNet covers non‑emergency medical transportation to WIC visits. Action step: call your plan and request care management to coordinate services. (dss.mo.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: the VA provides maternity care coordination and can authorize community obstetric care when needed—contact your nearest VA medical center’s Maternity Care Coordinator. Action step: enroll in VA health care and ask for maternity care coordination; still apply for WIC and MO HealthNet if eligible.
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms: WIC does not require citizenship and is not considered in public charge. If you are denied MPW due to citizenship, ask to be screened for SMHB, which bases eligibility on the unborn child. Action step: apply for WIC and request language services; TEL‑LINK provides free interpretation. (health.mo.gov, dss.mo.gov)
  • Tribal‑specific resources: if you are eligible for Indian Health Service or a Tribal health program, ask about lactation support and pump access through your tribal clinic or WIC partner. Action step: contact your nearest IHS or Tribal clinic and enroll with Missouri WIC concurrently for the broadest support.
  • Rural single moms with limited access: ask WIC about hospital‑grade loaners and peer counselor call‑backs; ask your plan to ship supplies to your home and to arrange tele‑lactation visits when possible. Action step: request telehealth lactation and pump shipment if distance is a barrier. (homestatehealth.com)
  • Single fathers: WIC allows dads, guardians, and foster parents to apply for eligible children under five; you can receive pump support for the lactating parent’s milk plan or infant feeding counseling. Action step: call WIC at 1‑800‑392‑8209 and explain your caregiving role. (health.mo.gov)
  • Language access: MO HealthNet and WIC provide free interpreters; call 1‑855‑373‑4636 for translation services with DSS or ask your clinic to arrange an interpreter. Action step: say, “I need an interpreter” and your language when you call. (mydss.mo.gov)

Region‑by‑region resource highlights

  • St. Louis metro: St. Louis Area Diaper Bank distribution at library branches; Mercy Hospital St. Louis is a Show‑Me 5 hospital; multiple Baby‑Friendly facilities region‑wide; LLL Greater St. Louis warm‑line 314‑424‑3900. (stldiaperbank.org, health.mo.gov, babyfriendlyusa.org, lllstl.org)
  • Kansas City metro: HappyBottoms partner sites distribute diapers throughout Jackson, Clay, and surrounding counties; Saint Luke’s North is Baby‑Friendly; University Health (TMC) has Baby‑Friendly designation. (happybottoms.org, saintlukeskc.org, universityhealthkc.org)
  • Mid‑Missouri: First Chance for Children Safe Cribs program in Boone and nearby counties; MU Women’s Hospital is a Show‑Me 5 site. (firstchanceforchildren.org, health.mo.gov)
  • Southeast/South Central: MoDOT and local coalitions run car seat check events; call listed contacts for event days. (modot.org)

Tables you can save

Managed care plan contacts and quick notes

Plan Member services Notes
Home State Health 1‑855‑694‑4663 Ships pumps; can ship 30 days pre‑delivery with prescription; ask care management if you need help ordering. (homestatehealth.com)
Healthy Blue 1‑833‑388‑1407 “May cover” a standard electric pump; ask for lactation support referrals. (healthybluemo.com)
UnitedHealthcare Community Plan 1‑866‑292‑0359 Electronic pump benefit; many orders go through Aeroflow at 1‑844‑867‑9890. (uhc.com)

WIC benefit amounts for FY 2025

Category Fruits & veggies CVB
Child 1–4 $26
Pregnant/postpartum $47
Fully/mostly breastfeeding $52

USDA policy memo confirms these statewide. (fns.usda.gov)

Missouri WIC income limits (monthly) — 2025

Family size Monthly income
1 $2,413
2 $3,261
3 $4,109
4 $4,957

Full table available from DHSS. (health.mo.gov)

Appeals and complaint contacts

Issue Who to call What to ask
Private plan denial 1‑800‑726‑7390 (Missouri DCI) “Help filing an external review on a breast pump denial.” (insurance.mo.gov)
MO HealthNet plan problems 1‑800‑392‑2161 (Participant Services) “Help escalating a managed care issue.” (dss.mo.gov)
Workplace pumping rights 1‑866‑487‑9243 (U.S. DOL) “PUMP Act help and complaint process.” (dol.gov)

Safe sleep and baby gear

Resource Contact
Safe Cribs for Missouri 1‑800‑835‑5465 (TEL‑LINK) — statewide crib referrals. (dese.mo.gov)
St. Louis Area Diaper Bank See “Find Supplies” page for library pickup sites and partners. (stldiaperbank.org)
HappyBottoms (Kansas City region) Partner site list with phone numbers; enroll online; multiple MO pickup sites. (happybottoms.org)

Real‑world examples

  • Example family—working mom in St. Joseph: She applied for MO HealthNet online, was approved for MPW within two weeks, enrolled in UnitedHealthcare, and called for a pump through Aeroflow. It shipped 10 days after her OB sent the prescription. She also enrolled with WIC for extra food and breastfeeding help. (mydss.mo.gov, uhc.com, health.mo.gov)
  • Example family—student mom in Springfield without insurance: She called WIC at 1‑800‑392‑8209 and got a personal electric pump because she was in school >32 hours per week away from baby. She later added MO HealthNet for full prenatal coverage. (health.mo.gov)
  • Example family—non‑citizen mom in Kansas City: Denied MPW due to citizenship but approved for SMHB for prenatal care and delivery. WIC supplied a hospital‑grade loaner while the baby was in NICU. Postpartum coverage was limited per SMHB rules, so she scheduled her postpartum check promptly. (dss.mo.gov)

If you hit obstacles, here’s your Plan B/C/D

  • Can’t reach your plan: call the Managed Care Enrollment Helpline 1‑800‑348‑6627 to confirm your plan and get the right phone number. (dss.mo.gov)
  • Supplier delays: ask your provider to fax the prescription directly to the plan’s preferred DME; request tracking; if urgent, ask the hospital about a short‑term rental.
  • Application stuck: call FSD 1‑855‑373‑4636 after 45 days; ask your provider to submit “presumptive eligibility” if available so you can start prenatal care while the regular application is pending. (mydss.mo.gov, dss.mo.gov)
  • Insurance says “not medically necessary”: request a written denial, file an internal appeal, then request DCI’s external review. Urgent cases can be expedited. (insurance.mo.gov)

Quick contact list you can copy

  • MO HealthNet apply by phone: 1‑855‑373‑9994
  • MO HealthNet Information Center: 1‑855‑373‑4636
  • Managed Care Enrollment Helpline: 1‑800‑348‑6627
  • Participant Services (Medicaid questions): 1‑800‑392‑2161
  • Missouri WIC Participant Support Line: 1‑800‑392‑8209
  • TEL‑LINK (clinic referrals): 1‑800‑835‑5465
  • DCI Consumer Hotline (insurance appeals): 1‑800‑726‑7390
  • U.S. DOL pumping rights helpline: 1‑866‑487‑9243
  • La Leche League Greater St. Louis: 314‑424‑3900 (mydss.mo.gov, dss.mo.gov, health.mo.gov, insurance.mo.gov, dol.gov, lllstl.org)

10 Missouri‑specific FAQs

  • Does Missouri Medicaid cover breast pumps: Yes—MO HealthNet Managed Care plans cover standard personal electric pumps with a provider prescription. Call your plan for the exact process. (homestatehealth.com, healthybluemo.com, uhc.com)
  • How soon before birth can I get a pump: Many plans ship in the last month of pregnancy; Home State Health notes pumps may ship 30 days before your due date. (homestatehealth.com)
  • How long is postpartum Medicaid coverage in Missouri: Missouri now provides 12 months of postpartum coverage for moms enrolled in MO HealthNet. (dss.mo.gov)
  • What if I’m denied MPW because of income: Ask to be screened for Show‑Me Healthy Babies, which covers the unborn child up to 300% FPL. (dss.mo.gov)
  • What if I’m denied MPW due to citizenship: You may still qualify for SMHB; postpartum coverage is limited to hospital discharge or one postpartum visit—schedule that visit promptly. (dss.mo.gov)
  • Can WIC really give me a pump: Yes—type of pump depends on the clinic’s assessment and your situation (work/school hours, breastfeeding status, medical need). (health.mo.gov)
  • What are the WIC fruit‑and‑veg amounts this year: For FY 2025, 26∗∗foreachchild,∗∗26** for each child, **47 for pregnant/postpartum moms, and $52 for fully/mostly breastfeeding moms. (fns.usda.gov)
  • Where can I get a free crib: Safe Cribs for Missouri provides portable cribs for eligible families. Call 1‑800‑835‑5465. (dese.mo.gov)
  • Do I have to pump in a bathroom at work: No—federal law requires a private space that is not a bathroom plus break time to pump for one year after birth. (dol.gov)
  • How do I complain if an insurer won’t cover a pump: File an internal appeal with your plan; for fully insured plans, call DCI at 1‑800‑726‑7390 and request an external review. (insurance.mo.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from Missouri Department of Social Services, Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture FNS, U.S. Department of Labor, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards for primary‑source verification, link testing, and rapid corrections.

Last verified: September 2025; Next review: April 2026.

Accuracy notes:

  • Eligibility thresholds: MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women uses 196% FPL plus a 5% disregard; SMHB screens to 300% FPL where applicable.
  • WIC income limits and FY 2025 CVB amounts: numbers above come from Missouri DHSS and USDA FNS.
  • Postpartum coverage: Missouri confirms 12‑month postpartum coverage for moms enrolled in MO HealthNet.

Program details can change; follow the official links provided and call the listed phone numbers to confirm. Email info@asinglemother.org to suggest corrections—we respond within 48 hours and update urgent items within 24 hours. (dss.mo.gov, health.mo.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Disclaimer

General information only: This guide is for educational purposes and is not legal advice, medical advice, or a guarantee of benefits. Always confirm details directly with your health plan, WIC clinic, or government agency.

Health and site safety: Do not share private health information over public Wi‑Fi. Use secure, official portals linked above when applying for benefits.

Security practices: Our site uses standard security controls, but you are responsible for protecting your personal information and using up‑to‑date devices and browsers when submitting applications online.

Sources cited

If a link is broken or information looks outdated, email info@asinglemother.org and we will fix it quickly.

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