Gel Breast Pads: FSA Eligibility

What are gel breast pads?

Gel breast pads protect a new mother's nipples while her postpartum body adjusts to breastfeeding . It is common to experience soreness, tenderness, and sensitivity to the friction experienced while wearing regular clothes; gel breast pads can be used as protection against the friction and to help the new mother feel more comfortable. Gel breast pads often perform a cooling function as well by using special materials. Gel breast pads are reusable and certain types may even be refrigerated in order to chill even further. For hygiene purposes a gel breast pad package may come with a tray or storage solution. They are typically one-size-fits-all (JustBreastFeeding.com).

Gel breast pads specifically cover tender areas on the body which have not yet adapted to breastfeeding, and/or are particularly sore. Gel breast pads are eligible for reimbursement with a consumer-directed healthcare account.

Gel breast pads are designed not to interfere with milk production and to integrate well with normal clothing so that there are no issues making use of the gel breast pads' advantages. Gel breast pads are typically made of the hydrogel material, which is suitable for pre-warming or cooling as desired.