Nursing moms everywhere know just how important it is to have a breast pump on hand. From moms who have to go back to work all the way to moms who just need a break and every scenario in between, breast pumps are essential to the breast feeding mother. New moms who might be in the market for one has probably noticed that they aren't always as affordable as one might hope if you want to get a decent one that isn't going to leave you raw after every use.

With so many options and variations of breast pumps on the market, keep in mind that not all are created equal. You can purchase single, one handed pumps that you have to pump by hand or battery but they don't get the job done nearly as well as an electric. I have tried them and let me tell you, they are not worth spending the money on because you will give up on them very quickly. Your hand gets tired and batteries die before you are even close to being finished pumping and they aren't very gentle no matter how you prep yourself or the pump before using them.

This leaves you with some of the higher end breast pumps such as the ones made by Medela. Medela makes wonderful products and I have never been let down by them. Yes they are expensive but they are easier to get your hands on than you think. If you have the money to purchase one for yourself, it's worth the investment. Those of you out there that don't, there is financial help. Not many people out there know that you can help from your insurance to pay for breast pumps as well as other government programs out there such as WIC (Women Infants and Children).

Mothers out there that are on WIC, be sure to ask about their local breast feeding program. You might have to take a couple short breast feeding classes but in the end, you will be provided with a brand new breast pump free of charge and they generally provide Medela as the brand of choice. If you are new to breast feeding, these classes will be a great help to you in learning all the little tricks to help with baby as well as how to care for yourself and what you need to be watching for as far as complications.

Depending on your insurance provider, you may be able to get your breast pump paid for through them. Speak with your midwife, doctor or OBGYN for some information on lactation consultants. They will be able to provide you with a wealth of information as well as how to go about getting your insurance to foot the bill of a breast pump through them. The only down side about it is that these pumps are not for keeps. Each machine is used as a rental only and you will have to give it back when you are done with it. Weigh your options and see what works best for you.