Free Breast Pumps and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in North Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first: If you are in danger or need urgent medical care, call 911. For a mental health crisis any time, call or text 988 for the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For fast local referrals to food, housing, diapers, and clinics, dial 211 (FirstLink) or 701‑235‑7335. (myfirstlink.org, hhs.gov)
Quick Help Box
- Fastest path to a free pump if you’re low‑to‑moderate income: Call North Dakota WIC at 1‑800‑472‑2286 to book the next WIC appointment; WIC can issue breast pumps and loan hospital‑grade pumps when medically needed. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- Already on Medicaid or newly pregnant: Call ND Medicaid’s Customer Support Center at 1‑866‑614‑6005 to report your pregnancy and confirm your breast pump coverage and 12‑month postpartum benefits. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Active‑duty, Guard/Reserve, or military family: TRICARE covers a new pump or rental plus supplies at no cost. You can buy from a store or DME and submit a claim if needed. Details below. (tricare.mil)
- Using private/Marketplace insurance: By law, most plans must cover a breast pump and lactation support without copays. Call the number on your card, or contact BCBSND 844‑363‑8457, Medica Individual & Family 1‑866‑810‑5238, or Sanford Health Plan Member Services 1‑800‑752‑5863. (healthcare.gov, bcbsnd.com, medica.com, sanfordhealthplan.com)
- Work rights when you return to the job: Nearly all workers have a right to reasonable pump breaks and a private space that isn’t a bathroom under the federal PUMP Act. For help or to file a complaint, call the U.S. Department of Labor at 1‑866‑487‑9243. (dol.gov)
What this guide covers
- What you can get for free: Breast pumps, supplies, lactation visits, and hospital‑grade rentals in special cases.
- Your main pathways: WIC, Medicaid, Marketplace/private plans, TRICARE, and workplace rights.
- Eligibility, income limits, documents, step‑by‑step application links, and real phone numbers across North Dakota.
- Timelines, realistic hurdles, and Plan B options if you hit delays.
All program details here are pulled from official North Dakota and federal sources and were verified for September 2025. See citations and links throughout.
Quick Comparison Table — Ways to Get a Breast Pump in North Dakota
Path | Who Qualifies | What’s Covered | How to Start |
---|---|---|---|
WIC | Pregnant/postpartum and children under 5 meeting income/nutrition rules | Personal manual or electric pumps; hospital‑grade pump loans when needed | Call ND WIC at 1‑800‑472‑2286 or find your clinic and book an appointment |
ND Medicaid | Pregnant members, postpartum for 12 months, and eligible infants | One manual pump every year or one electric every 3 years; hospital‑grade rental when medically necessary | Ask your provider for a prescription; contact a Medicaid‑enrolled DME; call 1‑866‑614‑6005 with questions |
Marketplace/Private | Most non‑grandfathered plans | Pump purchase or rental and lactation support without cost‑sharing | Call your insurer (BCBSND 844‑363‑8457, Medica 1‑866‑810‑5238, Sanford 1‑800‑752‑5863) |
TRICARE | TRICARE‑eligible pregnancy or adoption | Manual or standard electric pump; hospital‑grade pump with authorization; ongoing supplies | Get a prescription; buy or obtain through network DME; claim reimbursement if needed |
Employer | Nearly all employees covered by FLSA | Reasonable pump breaks and private space at work | Talk to HR; if denied, call DOL 1‑866‑487‑9243 |
(hhs.nd.gov, healthcare.gov, tricare.mil, dol.gov)
North Dakota WIC — The quickest route for many single moms
Most important first step: Call your nearest WIC clinic and grab the earliest appointment
- Statewide WIC line: 1‑800‑472‑2286 (or Bismarck office 701‑328‑2496) to be routed to a local clinic. WIC enrollment is in‑person, and the first visit usually takes 30–45 minutes. (fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov)
- Local clinics and numbers: Fargo 701‑277‑1455, Bismarck 701‑255‑3397, Grand Forks 701‑775‑3667, Minot 701‑852‑1376, Williston 701‑774‑6401, Dickinson 701‑483‑0171, Turtle Mountain/Belcourt 701‑477‑6436, Spirit Lake/Fort Totten 701‑766‑4242, Minot AFB 701‑723‑2118, many more in the official list. (hhs.nd.gov)
What WIC can provide:
- Breast pumps and breastfeeding support including peer counselors at some agencies, and referrals to local lactation clinics. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Hospital‑grade pump loans when medically necessary or when mom and baby are separated; supplies and details vary by clinic. (hhs.nd.gov)
Eligibility snapshot:
- Income limit for May 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026: For a family of four, up to 59,478/year∗∗(about∗∗59,478/year** (about **4,957/month). Full table below. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Residency and categorical rules: Live in North Dakota; pregnant, postpartum, or child under 5; nutrition risk assessed at clinic; adjunct eligibility for those on Medicaid/SNAP/TANF. (fns.usda.gov)
Documents to bring to your first appointment:
- Proof of identity for you and children; proof of ND address; proof of income for your household; immunization record for infants/children up to age 2. WIC does not require proof of citizenship. (hhs.nd.gov)
How to apply:
- Call your clinic and book the intake. If eligible, you can receive benefits the same day and get connected to pumps and breastfeeding help. (hhs.nd.gov)
2025–26 WIC Income Limits (North Dakota)
Household | Annual | Monthly | Bi‑weekly | Weekly |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | $28,953 | $2,413 | $1,114 | $557 |
2 | $39,128 | $3,261 | $1,505 | $753 |
3 | $49,303 | $4,109 | $1,897 | $949 |
4 | $59,478 | $4,957 | $2,288 | $1,144 |
5 | $69,653 | $5,805 | $2,679 | $1,340 |
6 | $79,828 | $6,653 | $3,071 | $1,536 |
7 | $90,003 | $7,501 | $3,462 | $1,731 |
8 | $100,178 | $8,349 | $3,853 | $1,927 |
Effective May 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026. Add 10,175/year∗∗(about∗∗10,175/year** (about **848/month) per additional person. (hhs.nd.gov, federalregister.gov)
Timelines and reality check:
- Expectations: First appointment is 30–45 minutes. Pumps are provided based on need and clinic supply. Hospital‑grade loaners are limited; if none are available, ask for a written note so you can pursue an insurance‑covered rental. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your WIC staff to fax or email a referral to your DME or insurer the same day. Also call FirstLink 211 to locate other local lenders or hospital loan programs near you. (myfirstlink.org)
ND Medicaid — Free pump coverage and a full year of postpartum care
Most important first step: Report your pregnancy to ND Medicaid right away
- Why it matters: North Dakota Medicaid provides 12 months of postpartum coverage if you are enrolled during pregnancy. Report pregnancy now so coverage continues after delivery. Call 1‑866‑614‑6005. (hhs.nd.gov)
Who qualifies while pregnant:
- Income limits effective April 1, 2025: Family of one 2,283/month∗∗,two∗∗2,283/month**, two **3,085, three 3,887∗∗,four∗∗3,887**, four **4,689 (pregnancy counts as an extra family member). These limits equal 175% FPL. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Newborns of moms on Medicaid at delivery qualify for their first year automatically. (hhs.nd.gov)
What Medicaid covers for pumps:
- Manual pump: Covered once per year.
- Standard electric pump: Covered once every 3 years.
- Hospital‑grade electric pump: Initial 1‑month rental doesn’t need prior authorization; additional months require authorization with medical documentation (prematurity, NICU, maternal illness, latch/neurologic anomalies, etc.). (hhs.nd.gov)
How to get your pump through Medicaid:
- Get a prescription from your prenatal or pediatric provider.
- Choose a Medicaid‑enrolled DME and ask for E0602 (manual) or E0603 (electric). No service authorization is required for these purchases. For hospital‑grade rental, the first month is authorization‑free (E0604RR). (hhs.nd.gov)
- Questions or stuck: Call Medicaid Customer Support at 1‑866‑614‑6005, or DME/claims help at 1‑877‑328‑7098. (hhs.nd.gov)
Apply or update your case:
- Online, phone, or local office: Use the “Apply for Help” portal or call 1‑866‑614‑6005; paper forms SFN 1909/SFN 405 are available and can be submitted to your Human Service Zone. (hhs.nd.gov)
Timelines and reality check:
- Why coverage can be quick: Manual and standard electric pumps are “purchase‑only” and don’t require prior authorization, so a DME can usually dispense once they have your prescription and eligibility. Hospital‑grade rentals beyond the first month take extra review. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Have your provider fax medical notes to the DME and ask them to use the Medicaid Service Authorization process for extended hospital‑grade rental. If you hit a barrier, call Provider Relations with your case note at 1‑877‑328‑7098 and ask for assistance. (hhs.nd.gov)
Private or Marketplace Insurance — No‑cost pump and lactation help
Most important first step: Call your plan before you buy
- The rule: Under the Affordable Care Act and HRSA guidelines, most plans must cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding without cost‑sharing. Plans can set reasonable rules (manual vs. electric, rental vs. purchase, timing), but your provider’s recommendation should guide what you receive. (healthcare.gov)
- Recent HRSA/WPSI guidance emphasizes access to double‑electric pumps and states that prior failure of a manual pump should not be required. (federalregister.gov, healio.com)
North Dakota 2025 Marketplace carriers and contacts:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND): Member Services 844‑363‑8457. Coverage policies include electric and manual pumps under DME and special situations for hospital‑grade rentals. (bcbsnd.com)
- Sanford Health Plan: Member Services 1‑800‑752‑5863; sales 1‑888‑535‑4831. ND offices in Fargo and Bismarck. (sanfordhealthplan.com)
- Medica: Individual & Family 1‑866‑810‑5238; ND plan info available for many counties. (medica.com)
- Context on 2025 plans: North Dakota Insurance Department confirms three carriers on the individual market for 2025. (insurance.nd.gov)
Timelines and reality check:
- What varies: Some plans ship pumps in the third trimester; others require postpartum. Many require you to use an in‑network DME vendor.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your OB or pediatrician to write a medical‑necessity note requesting a double‑electric pump and, if needed, a hospital‑grade rental; then ask your plan for a case manager. If network suppliers are out of stock, ask for an out‑of‑network exception. (healthcare.gov)
TRICARE — Military families
Most important first step: Get a simple prescription for “manual or standard electric breast pump”
- Coverage: TRICARE covers one pump per birth event, routine supplies (like storage bags up to 100 every 30 days), and up to six individual lactation visits at no cost. Hospital‑grade pumps require referral/authorization when medically necessary. (tricare.mil)
- How to use it: You can obtain a pump from network DME, exchanges, or retail/online and file a claim using DD‑2642 with your prescription if you paid out of pocket. (tricare.mil)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your regional TRICARE contractor to request help identifying a supplier and confirm current reimbursement caps. (tricare-west.com)
Your Rights to Pump at Work in North Dakota
Most important first step: Tell your supervisor you need pump breaks and a private space
- Federal protection: The PUMP Act guarantees reasonable break time and a private space that is not a bathroom for up to one year after birth for nearly all FLSA‑covered workers. If you’re not fully relieved of duty during a break, that time must be paid. For help, call DOL 1‑866‑487‑9243. (dol.gov)
- North Dakota law: You have the right to breastfeed in any public or private place where you are authorized to be. ND also offers “Infant‑Friendly Workplace” designation for employers who adopt supportive policies. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Grants for workplaces: ND HHS offers small grants (up to $500) to help employers create lactation spaces through September 30, 2025. Share this with your HR team. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer refuses to provide time/space, document it and contact DOL or ND HHS for resources. You can also search ND’s list of designated “Infant‑Friendly” workplaces to demonstrate common practices in your area. (hhs.nd.gov)
Clean and Safe Pumping — Health guidance worth following
- Cleaning basics: Disassemble and wash pump parts that touch milk after every use; sanitize daily for newborns and NICU babies; air‑dry completely. (cdc.gov)
- FDA reminder: Wipe the motor unit; don’t submerge it; avoid cloth towels for drying parts. (fda.gov)
- National helpline for lactation questions: 1‑800‑994‑9662 (English/Spanish, weekdays). (womenshealth.gov)
Hospital & Community Lactation Resources in North Dakota
Region | Organization | What They Offer | How to Reach |
---|---|---|---|
Fargo | Sanford Health Lactation | Lactation visits and Baby Café groups | 701‑417‑3838; Baby Café at Fargo Cass Public Health |
Fargo | Essentia Health | Lactation line and support groups | 701‑364‑8066 |
Bismarck | Sanford Health | Lactation support and classes | 701‑323‑2547 |
Grand Forks | Altru Breastfeeding Services | Classes, clinic, pump help | 701‑780‑5822 |
Minot | Trinity Health | Classes, lactation support | 701‑418‑8800 or 701‑857‑2352 |
Statewide | ND Breastfeeding Coalition | Community resources and local coalitions | See “Coalition” page |
(sanfordhealth.org, essentiahealth.org, altru.org, trinityhealth.org)
Application Checklist — Bring this to appointments and supplier visits
- Proof of pregnancy or recent birth such as a prenatal note, ultrasound, hospital discharge, or birth certificate.
- Photo ID and North Dakota address for you (license/ID, utility bill, lease).
- Insurance or Medicaid card if you have coverage.
- WIC appointment documents if applying: identity, address, income proof for your household, and immunization record for infants/children under 2. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Provider prescription stating “manual or standard electric breast pump” (and “hospital‑grade pump rental” if needed).
- A back‑up plan such as a list of alternative DMEs or hospital lactation contacts in case of stock shortages.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Need | Where to Call | Why |
---|---|---|
Book WIC, ask about pumps | 1‑800‑472‑2286 | Fastest way to get a pump and lactation help |
ND Medicaid help | 1‑866‑614‑6005 | Report pregnancy, extend postpartum coverage, DME questions |
DME/claims specifics | 1‑877‑328‑7098 | ND Medicaid Provider Relations can troubleshoot DME issues |
Work pumping rights | 1‑866‑487‑9243 | DOL PUMP Act information/complaints |
24/7 assistance & local referrals | 211 or 701‑235‑7335 | FirstLink statewide resource and crisis lines |
National lactation helpline | 1‑800‑994‑9662 | OWH helpline with breastfeeding peer counselors |
(fns.usda.gov, hhs.nd.gov, dol.gov, myfirstlink.org, womenshealth.gov)
Income Limits You Can Use Today — ND Programs Relevant to Maternity
ND Medicaid — Pregnant Women (effective April 1, 2025)
Family Size (pregnancy counts) | Monthly Income Limit |
---|---|
1 | $2,283 |
2 | $3,085 |
3 | $3,887 |
4 | $4,689 |
Each additional person | + $803 |
This category provides 12 months of postpartum coverage for women enrolled during pregnancy. (hhs.nd.gov)
ND Medicaid Expansion — Adults 19–64 (effective April 1, 2025)
Household | Annual Income at 138% FPL |
---|---|
1 | $21,597 |
2 | $29,187 |
3 | $36,777 |
4 | $44,367 |
8 | $74,727 |
Add $7,590 per extra person. (hhs.nd.gov)
WIC — 185% FPL (May 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026)
See full table above; $59,478/year for a family of four. (hhs.nd.gov)
Step‑by‑Step — How to get a free pump by path
WIC path
- Book the WIC appointment now: Call 1‑800‑472‑2286 or your local clinic.
- Bring documents: ID, address, income, immunizations for children. See checklist. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Ask specifically: “Can I receive a double‑electric pump?” and “Am I eligible for a hospital‑grade rental?” If none are available, ask for a note for your insurer/DME.
- Timeline reality: Many clinics issue personal pumps quickly if you qualify; hospital‑grade loans depend on inventory.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask staff to refer you to a hospital lactation clinic and to coordinate with your insurer or Medicaid for a rental. Call 211 for a list of local loaner programs. (myfirstlink.org)
Medicaid path
- Tell Medicaid you’re pregnant: Call 1‑866‑614‑6005 so your postpartum coverage locks in for 12 months after delivery. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Ask your provider for a prescription: Include diagnosis if requesting a hospital‑grade pump.
- Call a Medicaid‑enrolled DME: Ask if they stock E0602/E0603 purchases and E0604 rentals; bring your prescription. No prior auth for purchase pumps; first month of hospital‑grade is also without prior auth. (hhs.nd.gov)
- If DME asks for approval for a standard pump: Point them to ND policy showing purchase pumps don’t require service authorization. (hhs.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Provider Relations at 1‑877‑328‑7098 to help the DME apply the correct policy; ask your provider to fax updated notes. (hhs.nd.gov)
Private/Marketplace path
- Call your plan: Confirm in‑network DME suppliers and whether you can get a pump before delivery.
- Request a double‑electric if you plan to work or pump regularly: Reference women’s preventive services coverage. (healthcare.gov, federalregister.gov)
- Get the order: Ask your provider to send the prescription to the DME the same day.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If the in‑network supplier is out of stock, ask for an out‑of‑network exception; if denied, file a same‑day appeal citing medical need to maintain supply.
TRICARE path
- Get a simple prescription for “manual or standard electric breast pump” (brand not required).
- Pick up from exchange, DME, or retailer: Save receipt; if you paid out of pocket, file DD‑2642 with your prescription to be reimbursed.
- Need hospital‑grade pump: Ask your provider to submit a referral for authorization. (tricare.mil)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your regional contractor to review reimbursement limits and eligible vendors. (tricare-west.com)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming coverage without calling: Plans vary on when and what type of pump they’ll cover. Always check benefits first. (healthcare.gov)
- Not reporting pregnancy to Medicaid before birth: If you wait, you can miss the 12‑month postpartum coverage extension. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Skipping cleaning steps: Infections have been linked to improperly cleaned pump parts. Follow CDC/FDA guidance. (cdc.gov, fda.gov)
- Waiting until you return to work to arrange a pumping space: Ask HR well before leave ends; share ND’s Infant‑Friendly resources. (hhs.nd.gov)
Diverse Communities — Tailored tips and contacts
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for providers experienced with chest/breastfeeding and inclusive lactation care. HRSA guidelines cover comprehensive lactation support regardless of family structure. Use the OWH helpline 1‑800‑994‑9662 if you need a second opinion. (federalregister.gov, womenshealth.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: ND Medicaid’s EPSDT/Health Tracks and DME benefit can support specialized feeding needs; ask your provider about documentation for hospital‑grade pumps and adaptive supplies. Call Medicaid Customer Support 1‑866‑614‑6005 for help. (hhs.nd.gov)
Veteran single mothers: If enrolled in TRICARE, pumps and supplies are covered; if receiving VA care, ask your VA maternity care coordinator to coordinate lactation support with TRICARE or community providers. Use TRICARE guidance above. (tricare.mil)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: WIC does not require proof of citizenship. If language is a barrier, ask for free interpreters at ND Medicaid 1‑866‑614‑6005 and at WIC clinics. (hhs.nd.gov)
Tribal citizens: Tribal WIC programs (e.g., Turtle Mountain and Spirit Lake) can enroll you and provide pumps or loaners; Turtle Mountain WIC 701‑477‑6436; Spirit Lake WIC 701‑766‑4242. Indian Health Service facilities also support lactation in the workplace and for employees. (hhs.nd.gov, ihs.gov)
Rural single moms with long drives: Call FirstLink 211 to locate the nearest DME and to ask about mobile WIC clinics; many insurers allow mail‑order pumps once approved. (myfirstlink.org)
Single fathers raising newborns: You can enroll children in WIC and Medicaid. WIC categories include infants and children under 5 regardless of the caregiver’s gender. Call WIC 1‑800‑472‑2286 to see if you and your child qualify. (hhs.nd.gov)
Language access: Ask every agency and clinic for free interpreter services; ND Medicaid offers free translation via the Customer Support Center. (hhs.nd.gov)
Resources by Region — Selected contacts you can use today
- Fargo area: Fargo WIC 701‑277‑1455; Sanford Lactation 701‑417‑3838; Essentia Lactation 701‑364‑8066; Baby Café meets at Fargo Cass Public Health. (hhs.nd.gov, sanfordhealth.org, essentiahealth.org)
- Bismarck/Mandan: Bismarck WIC 701‑255‑3397; Sanford Lactation 701‑323‑2547; Bismarck‑Burleigh Public Health lactation support 701‑355‑1562 and texting line 701‑214‑3085. (hhs.nd.gov, sanfordhealth.org)
- Grand Forks: Grand Forks WIC 701‑775‑3667; Altru Breastfeeding Services 701‑780‑5822. (hhs.nd.gov, altru.org)
- Minot/Minot AFB: Minot WIC 701‑852‑1376; Minot AFB WIC 701‑723‑2118; Trinity lactation 701‑418‑8800 or 701‑857‑2352. (hhs.nd.gov, trinityhealth.org)
- Williston/Dickinson: Williston WIC 701‑774‑6401; Dickinson WIC 701‑483‑0171. (hhs.nd.gov)
Work and Pumping — Practical steps
- Before leave ends: Email HR asking for a private pumping space and storage access (fridge or cooler space), and share ND’s Infant‑Friendly Workplace materials.
- If there’s no permanent room: The law allows temporary rooms if they are private and available when needed. (dol.gov)
- If you’re told to use a bathroom: Politely note the law prohibits bathrooms for pumping spaces and ask for an alternative. (dol.gov)
Tables You Can Use
Clean & Store Cheat Sheet (from CDC/FDA)
Task | What to Do |
---|---|
After each session | Rinse, wash parts that touched milk, air‑dry completely |
Daily for newborn/NICU | Sanitize parts (boil or steam) |
Motor unit | Wipe only; never submerge |
Storage | Label, refrigerate or freeze promptly |
ND Medicaid Pump Coverage at a Glance
Item | Coverage |
---|---|
Manual pump (E0602) | Covered once every year |
Standard electric (E0603) | Covered once every 3 years |
Hospital‑grade electric (E0604RR) | First month rental without prior auth; additional months require authorization with medical necessity |
Lactation Support Near You
City | Clinic | Phone |
---|---|---|
Fargo | Sanford Lactation | 701‑417‑3838 |
Fargo | Essentia Lactation | 701‑364‑8066 |
Bismarck | Sanford Lactation | 701‑323‑2547 |
Grand Forks | Altru Breastfeeding | 701‑780‑5822 |
Minot | Trinity Lactation | 701‑418‑8800 |
(sanfordhealth.org, essentiahealth.org, altru.org, trinityhealth.org)
ND WIC — Key Numbers
Purpose | Contact |
---|---|
Statewide WIC line | 1‑800‑472‑2286 |
Local clinics directory | See “How Do I Apply for WIC?” |
WIC program site | “Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Program — ND HHS” |
Work Rights — Quick Reminders
Right | What It Means |
---|---|
Break time | Reasonable time when you need to pump, up to one year postpartum |
Space | Private, shielded from view, not a bathroom |
Pay | If not fully relieved of duty, time must be paid; paid breaks treated like other paid breaks |
Help | DOL help line 1‑866‑487‑9243 |
(dol.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Returning to work at 3 weeks postpartum: A Fargo single mom used WIC for a loaner hospital‑grade pump after her late‑preterm baby had latch issues, then switched to a personal electric pump covered by Medicaid once supply stabilized. She asked HR for a key‑card room and used CDC cleaning steps to pump safely at work. Policies cited here support that workflow. (hhs.nd.gov, dol.gov, cdc.gov)
- Guard member on TRICARE: A Minot mom purchased a double‑electric pump at a retail store at 30 weeks, kept the receipt, and submitted DD‑2642 with her prescription to be reimbursed. She later received covered storage bags monthly. (tricare.mil)
10 North Dakota FAQs
- Q: Can I get a pump before I deliver?
A: Yes for most plans and for TRICARE; confirm your insurer’s timing rules. WIC may also issue a pump during pregnancy based on need. (healthcare.gov, tricare.mil) - Q: Does Medicaid really extend postpartum coverage to 12 months in ND?
A: Yes. ND Medicaid has provided 12‑month postpartum coverage since January 1, 2023. Report your pregnancy to qualify. (hhs.nd.gov) - Q: What if I only need a manual pump?
A: Medicaid covers one manual pump annually; Marketplace plans must still cover appropriate pumps with no cost‑sharing. (hhs.nd.gov, healthcare.gov) - Q: Can I rent a hospital‑grade pump if my baby is in the NICU?
A: Yes. Medicaid covers an initial month rental without prior auth and additional months with medical necessity. Private plans and TRICARE can also authorize rentals. (hhs.nd.gov, tricare.mil) - Q: What if my workplace tells me to pump in a bathroom?
A: The law says the space cannot be a bathroom. Call DOL 1‑866‑487‑9243 if needed. (dol.gov) - Q: I’m over WIC income but still struggling. Any help?
A: Call 211 to find local diaper banks, hospital loaners, or grants. Ask your insurer for case management if medical issues require a hospital‑grade pump. (myfirstlink.org) - Q: Where do I find an in‑person support group?
A: Check Essentia Tender Transitions, Sanford Baby Café in Fargo, Trinity classes in Minot, and Altru clinics in Grand Forks. (fargond.gov, essentiahealth.org, trinityhealth.org) - Q: How do I safely clean parts when I’m at work?
A: Rinse after use, store safely, and fully wash before next use; sanitize daily for newborns/NICU infants. (cdc.gov) - Q: Do I need a particular brand for coverage?
A: Usually no. Plans and TRICARE rarely require a specific brand; follow your provider’s recommendation and plan rules. (healthcare.gov, tricare.mil) - Q: My plan denied a double‑electric pump. What now?
A: File an appeal with a letter of medical necessity and cite women’s preventive services recommending access to double‑electric pumps without requiring prior failure of a manual pump. (federalregister.gov)
If You’re Short on Time — One‑Page Plan
- Call WIC now: 1‑800‑472‑2286.
- Report pregnancy to Medicaid or verify private plan benefits: 1‑866‑614‑6005 for ND Medicaid; your plan’s member services for private coverage.
- Ask your provider for a written prescription and, if needed, a hospital‑grade rental note.
- Call a DME supplier and schedule pick‑up or shipping.
- Talk to HR about a pumping room and schedule.
- Save receipts and note every call date/time in case you need to appeal or request reimbursement.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from North Dakota Department of Health & Human Services, USDA, HHS/HRSA, U.S. Department of Labor, TRICARE, and established North Dakota health systems. It follows our Editorial Standards with primary sources, cross‑verification, and change tracking. We correct verified errors promptly and link to official application portals and forms whenever possible. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Email info@asinglemother.org with corrections.
Disclaimer
Important: Program rules, income limits, and benefit details can change without notice. Always confirm pump coverage, eligibility, and current amounts with the relevant agency or insurer before you apply or purchase. Health information here is general and not medical advice. For medical decisions, talk to your clinician. We keep this site secure and do not collect personal health information; still, avoid sending private data by email. If you find a broken link or outdated figure, email info@asinglemother.org and we will respond within 48–72 hours.
Sources
- ND WIC program overview and contacts: See ND HHS WIC pages and clinic list; statewide lines 1‑800‑472‑2286 and 701‑328‑2496. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- ND WIC 2025–26 income limits: Effective May 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 (family of four $59,478), and federal WIC IEGs. (hhs.nd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- ND Medicaid pumps policy (DME): Coverage frequencies, codes E0602/E0603/E0604, and authorization rules. (hhs.nd.gov)
- ND Medicaid pregnancy and children income limits: Effective April 1, 2025; postpartum extension information and news release. (hhs.nd.gov)
- TRICARE breast pump and supplies coverage: Steps, supplies list, and claims. (tricare.mil)
- ACA/HRSA preventive services (breastfeeding support and supplies): Healthcare.gov and HRSA/WPSI updates. (healthcare.gov, federalregister.gov)
- PUMP Act federal rights and DOL FAQs: Federal requirements, paid time if not relieved of duty, complaint line 1‑866‑487‑9243. (dol.gov)
- ND breastfeeding laws and Infant‑Friendly workplaces: ND HHS law summary and state program resources. (hhs.nd.gov)
- Cleaning and safety: CDC and FDA guidance on pump hygiene. (cdc.gov, fda.gov)
- Local lactation resources: Sanford, Essentia, Altru, Trinity contacts as listed. (sanfordhealth.org, essentiahealth.org, altru.org, trinityhealth.org)
- FirstLink 211 statewide: 24/7 information and referral phone/text/chat. (myfirstlink.org)
Reality check: Getting a pump is doable, but you may have to make calls, chase a prescription, or wait on inventory. Use the numbers and scripts here, ask for case management, and always get names and dates. If one door closes, try the next path immediately.
🏛️More North Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in North Dakota
- 📋 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