Having a baby is one of life’s most exciting moments, but it also comes with a series of medical expenses that can quickly add up. From routine copays to unexpected bills, navigating the costs of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care can be overwhelming for new parents. Knowing what to expect can help you better prepare for these expenses and avoid financial surprises. In this guide, we’ll cover the types of medical bills you may encounter when having a baby and how you can use a BeHerVillage registry to create a medical bills fund.
Routine Prenatal and Postnatal Copays
Throughout your pregnancy, you’ll have regular prenatal visits with your healthcare provider. Most insurance plans require a copay for each visit, which can range from $20 to $50, depending on your plan. Postnatal checkups for both you and your baby also typically come with a copay. While these costs may seem small initially, they can add up over the course of your pregnancy.
Lactation Consultants
If you plan to breastfeed, you may need the support of a lactation consultant, especially if you encounter challenges. Many new parents are surprised to learn that these services aren’t always covered by insurance. On average, a lactation consultant visit can cost between $150 and $300 per session, and some parents need multiple visits.
Tongue-Tie Revisions
Tongue-tie, a condition where a baby’s tongue is tethered to the bottom of the mouth, can interfere with breastfeeding. If your baby is diagnosed with a tongue-tie, a quick surgical procedure called a frenotomy may be recommended. The cost of this procedure can vary, but without insurance coverage, it may run between $400 and $800. Even with insurance, you may be responsible for a copay or coinsurance, depending on your plan.
Unexpected Medical Leave
While you may plan for a standard maternity leave, sometimes medical complications during pregnancy or after birth can lead to extended time off. This may involve additional medical costs for hospital stays, treatments, or medication, as well as a loss of income if your leave isn’t fully covered by your employer or disability insurance.
Surprise Bills
Even with careful planning, surprise medical bills can pop up. These bills often arise from services provided by out-of-network doctors, anesthesiologists, or specialists you didn’t realize were not covered by your insurance. Surprise bills can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the service provided.
Specialist Care and Procedures
In addition to standard prenatal and delivery care, you may require specialist care if you experience complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or preterm labor. Specialist visits and procedures like ultrasounds, genetic testing, or fetal monitoring can lead to higher out-of-pocket costs if they’re not fully covered by your insurance plan.
Labor and Delivery Costs
The cost of giving birth varies greatly depending on whether you have a vaginal delivery or a C-section, as well as where you deliver (hospital, birthing center, or home). Vaginal births without complications can cost between $5,000 and $11,000, while C-sections can run between $7,500 and $15,000. Even with insurance, you’re likely to be responsible for a portion of these costs through copays, coinsurance, and your deductible.
Neonatal Care
If your baby requires neonatal care, such as a stay in the NICU, the costs can be significant. NICU stays can cost thousands of dollars per day, and while insurance often covers a portion of these expenses, out-of-pocket costs can still be high, especially if your baby requires a long stay or specialized treatment.
How to Manage Medical Bills with a BeHerVillage Registry
Preparing for the financial costs of childbirth can be daunting, but there are ways to manage these expenses. One effective way to reduce the financial burden is by setting up a BeHerVillage registry. Instead of traditional baby shower gifts, your friends and family can contribute to a medical bills fund that will help cover the costs of prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum services. With a BeHerVillage registry, you can focus on welcoming your baby into the world without the added stress of mounting medical bills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average cost of having a baby in a hospital?
The cost of having a baby in a hospital can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the type of delivery and any complications. Even with insurance, you may be responsible for copays, coinsurance, and your deductible.
How much does a lactation consultant cost?
Lactation consultant fees typically range between $150 and $300 per session. Some insurance plans may cover these services, but many do not.
What are tongue-tie revision costs?
Tongue-tie revisions, also known as frenotomies, can cost between $400 and $800 if not covered by insurance. Some parents may be responsible for copays or coinsurance.
Are surprise medical bills common?
Surprise medical bills can occur when services are provided by out-of-network doctors or specialists. These bills can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the procedure or service.
How can BeHerVillage help with medical bills?
A BeHerVillage registry allows friends and family to contribute to a fund that helps cover your medical bills. Instead of receiving traditional gifts, you can use this fund to pay for prenatal visits, delivery costs, and postpartum care.
BeHerVillage is helping parents like you get the funds they need for the support they deserve! Are you having a baby and are looking for support? Create a registry for support today and get gifted funds directly into your bank account to pay for your support team. You deserve this.
Are you a birthworker who supports new moms? Use BeHerVillage to help your clients pay for your support. Create your free profile here and you can be the best baby shower gift a mom will ever get!
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