Is Pregnancy Covered in Health Insurance? Maternity Benefits & Newborn Care Explained

Pregnancy and Health Insurance Explained

Maternity coverage in health insurance ensures financial support for expecting mothers by covering medical expenses related to pregnancy or childbirth. While many insurance plans offer maternity benefits, the extent of coverage varies.

Before choosing a policy, it is essential to understand key factors like waiting periods, delivery expenses, and newborn coverage. Let's examine what to look for when selecting a plan.

Why Do You Need Pregnancy Cover as a Part of Your Health Insurance? 

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that 41% of child deaths under five happen in the first 28 days, and thus, good medical care during and after birth is very important for both mother and baby.

In many Indian cities, the cost of a normal or C-section delivery can go up to Rs. 2 lakhs or more. These expenses can put a financial strain on families.

However, many maternity insurance plans have a waiting period before benefits start. Therefore it is best to get coverage well before planning a family to avoid delays in benefits.

What are the Key Aspects of Maternity Coverage in Health Insurance Plans?

While buying a health insurance plan, review the policy details or consult the insurance provider for exact coverage:

• Maternity Benefits: Some plans include maternity coverage, while others require an add-on rider.
• Waiting Period: Most policies have a waiting period of 9 months to 4 years, depending upon the provider, before benefits can be claimed.
• Pre and Post-Natal Expenses: Some plans cover medical check-ups, consultations, and post-delivery care.
• Delivery Expenses: Normal and C-section deliveries are usually covered, but there might be certain coverage limits.
• Newborn Coverage: Some plans provide coverage for the newborn’s medical expenses for a specific period after birth.
• Exclusions: Certain policies may not cover complications, IVF treatments, or pre-existing pregnancy.

Why is it Advantageous to Buy Health Insurance with Maternity Benefit?

Pregnancy is a special time, but it can also be stressful. Medical costs, including doctor visits and hospital stays, can be expensive. A health insurance policy with maternity benefits helps cover these costs so you can focus on your health and happiness. The benefits are:

• Financial Support: It covers hospital expenses for both normal and cesarean deliveries. Includes costs for doctor visits and medical tests before and after birth thereby reducing financial stress during pregnancy.
• Tax Benefits: Last but not least when you buy a maternity insurance policy, under the Income Tax Act of 1961, Section 80D, you are eligible for tax benefits.
• Newborn Baby Cover: Some plans cover medical expenses for the baby from day one and also include emergency care and vaccinations for the newborn.
• Covers Delivery Expenses: Pays for hospital bills, ambulance charges, and medicines needed during childbirth. Provides support whether it is a normal or cesarean delivery.
• Others: This insurance usually covers unexpected complications during pregnancy or childbirth and also outpatient expenses like gynaecologist and lactation consultation and diagnostics tests.
• No Waiting Period Plans Available: Some plans offer immediate maternity coverage, while others require you to wait a few years. Thus, choosing the right plan helps you prepare for the future.

What is Not Included in Pregnancy Cover?

Things that are not usually included in health insurance for pregnancy are:

• Expenses incurred for supplements like vitamins and tonics.
• Infertility treatments.
• Expenses on stem cells.
• Expenses incurred during the waiting period.

Why Choose Star Health Insurance for Maternity Cover?

With Star Health Insurance, you can focus on welcoming your little one without stress. The features of the policy are:

• Care Before and After Birth: Many health insurance plans don’t cover medical expenses before and after childbirth. But Star Health Insurance takes care of both, ensuring you and your baby get the best care.
• Cashless Hospital Services: If you are expecting a baby, you can get treatment without paying upfront at over 14,000 hospitals across India. This makes it easier for moms-to-be to focus on their health.
• Quick and Easy Claim Process: Star Health Insurance makes sure you don’t have to worry about paperwork during an important time. With a smooth and quick process, your hospital bills are settled directly. Since there is no Third-Party Administrator (TPA) involved, claims are processed faster.

Lastly, Star Health offers a policy called the ‘Star Women Care Insurance Policy,’ designed specifically for women's health needs. This policy provides comprehensive coverage, including maternity benefits.

Also Read:

→ What are 100% Pregnancy Symptoms

→ What Are the First Signs of Pregnancy

→ What are the Symptoms of Pregnancy at 1 Week Discharge

→ What is Pregnancy Insurance

→ What Part of the Breast Hurts in Early Pregnancy