Congratulations to you and your growing bump Mama! Once the excitement of finding out you’re pregnant settles down, you quickly realize how much there is for you to prepare, in what feels like such a short time. You start to think about maternity leave, getting the nursery ready, brainstorming names, figuring out child care, etc. The list goes on, and I am sure somewhere on that long list is taking the time to talk to insurance (and if it’s not on the list- add it!). 

Pregnancy and babies are expensive, some of which is covered under insurance and some of which is not. It is important to talk with your health insurance provider at some point during your pregnancy to figure out all of those details. Not sure what questions to even ask? Take a look at this list, which lays out some critical questions to get answered, so there are no surprises at the doctor’s office or hospital when the time comes.

• What is covered under prenatal and maternal care? Breast pumps? Lactation Consultants?
• What is my co-pay for prenatal care? Both for standard appointments and additional/emergency appointments? (For example, if you start to feel cramping and want to go to the doctor before your next appointment)
• When do I need to have my baby added to our insurance? How do I go about doing this?
• What prenatal testing is covered under my insurance? Are there any tests that require pre-approval?
• Is my preferred doctor/hospital covered under insurance? If not, what doctors are in network? 
• What is the cost for a vaginal delivery vs. C-section?
• What percentage of my hospital bill will be covered? What about my baby’s hospital bill?
• What is covered if I deliver my baby prematurely? (and a NICU stay is required)
• (If applicable) Are home birth/water birth or midwife services covered? What percentage?
• Is there a maximum to what insurance will cover when it comes to prenatal and maternal care?

Health insurance can be confusing, so feel free to ask any and all questions that come to mind. You want to be well informed as you move through this pregnancy, especially if this is your first!