Insurance & Cost
Insurance and Payment Information for Lactation Services
We understand that figuring out insurance coverage for breastfeeding and lactation services can be confusing. The Lactation Foundation at UTHealth Houston is committed to helping families understand their options and access the breastfeeding support they need.
Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on your insurance plan, the service you receive, and your individual benefits.
Is Lactation Care Covered by Insurance?
Many health insurance plans provide some level of coverage for breastfeeding support and lactation services. However, coverage varies by insurance company and individual plan.
Your insurance plan may have specific requirements regarding:
- Whether lactation consultations are covered
- Which providers are covered under your plan
- Whether a physician referral or prescription is required
- The number of lactation visits covered
- Whether your plan requires you to meet a deductible
- Copays, coinsurance, or other out-of-pocket costs
- Whether the service must be provided in person or may be provided by phone or virtually
Because insurance benefits differ from plan to plan, we recommend contacting your insurance company directly to confirm your coverage before your appointment.
What Should I Ask My Insurance Company?
When you contact your insurance company, you may want to ask:
“Does my health insurance plan cover lactation consultation or breastfeeding support?”
You can also ask:
- Is lactation consultation covered under my plan?
- Are services provided by an IBCLC covered?
- Is the Lactation Foundation or UTHealth Houston an in-network provider?
- Do I need a referral or prescription?
- Do I need to meet my deductible before lactation services are covered?
- What copay or coinsurance will I be responsible for?
- How many lactation visits are covered?
- Are phone or telehealth lactation consultations covered?
- Do I need to submit a claim for reimbursement?
Your insurance company can provide the most accurate information about your individual benefits.
What If My Insurance Does Not Cover Lactation Services?
If your insurance does not cover a particular service, or if you have out-of-pocket costs, our team can provide information about available payment options and current fees.
We also offer certain free or no-cost breastfeeding education and support resources. Explore our classes, support groups, and online breastfeeding resources to learn more about available options.
Cost of Lactation Services
The cost of an appointment depends on the type of service you receive.
For current fees and payment information, please contact the Lactation Foundation or review the appointment information for the specific service you are interested in.
[Schedule a Lactation Consultation]
Free Breastfeeding Education and Support
Not every family needs a paid clinical consultation. The Lactation Foundation also provides educational and support resources that may be available at no cost.
Explore our:
- Breastfeeding support group
- Free breastfeeding education
- Online breastfeeding resources
- Patient handouts
- Breastfeeding classes and educational programs
These resources can be helpful for families who want additional information, encouragement, or community support.
Need Help Choosing a Service?
If you’re not sure which type of lactation service is right for you, we’re happy to help you determine where to start.
Lactation Consultation
A personalized consultation with an IBCLC can help with concerns such as latch, milk supply, pumping, breastfeeding positions, and other feeding challenges.
Learn About Lactation Consultation
Prenatal Breastfeeding Consultation
Expecting a baby? A prenatal consultation can help you prepare for breastfeeding and develop a plan based on your individual goals and circumstances.
Learn About Prenatal Breastfeeding Consultation
Breastfeeding Medicine
Some breastfeeding concerns require medical evaluation or treatment. Our breastfeeding medicine service can help address more complex or persistent problems.
Learn About Breastfeeding Medicine
Phone Lactation Consultation
Have a breastfeeding question but cannot come to the clinic? A phone consultation with an IBCLC may be an appropriate option for certain concerns.
Learn About Phone Lactation Consultation
Questions About Insurance or Cost?
If you have questions about insurance coverage, fees, or which service is right for you, please contact the Lactation Foundation before scheduling your appointment.
Call 713-500-2800 (option 1).
Our goal is to make it easier for you to understand your options and get the breastfeeding support you need.