Does Health Insurance Cover Pregnancy & Birth?

Health insurance can be obtained through different ways, such as through an employer or by paying for an insurance policy out of pocket. Health insurance policies for females normally include pregnancy, labor and birth coverage. While most policies cover labor and the hospital stay, some policies have specific instructions that must be followed in order for hospital claims to be paid.

Coverage

• A health insurance policy for a female normally covers prenatal visits for blood work and ultrasounds and maternity care to pediatric visits as well as immunizations for your baby. The newborn would usually be covered for the first 30 days under the mother's insurance policy. Newborns must be placed on the policy as a dependent within 30 days of birth.

C-Section vs Natural Birth

• Health insurance policies cover natural birth and cesarean section differently. Cesarean section usually has to be either required or due to an emergency complication. Insurance companies can refuse payment if a c-section is requested by the mother.

Planning Ahead

• If you are planning a pregnancy, it is a good idea to contact your insurance company and check for any pregnancy and birth coverage.

Hospital Stay

• Health insurance policies that cover maternity have to cover hospital stay. Childbirth hospital stays are 48 hours following a vaginal delivery or 96 hours following a delivery by cesarean section.

Preauthorization

• Per law, pre-authorization is not necessary for childbirth hospital stay coverage.