How to Lower Medical Pregnancy Costs | Cut Hospital Expenses

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Pregnancy costs can really add up when you factor in pregnancy related medical expenses from the hospital and doctors visits.

If you’re not getting government aid these bills can add up to $15,000 or more if you have a complicated pregnancy.

When it comes to medical expenses during pregnancy there isn’t a cut and dry answer for everyone. But, there are some things you can do to prepare for, lower, and possibly eliminate pregnancy related medical expenses.

How much is the average pregnancy cost?

According to Business Insider the average delivery with no complications costs $10,000.

Keep in mind that this is with no complications and doesn’t factor in costs like doctors fees, insurance premiums, medication, post-partum care, or complications during your pregnancy and delivery.

The cost of delivery varies by state and by hospital and also depends on the amount your insurance will cover.

Are pregnancy costs covered by health insurance?

Yes, pregnancy is covered by most health plans. Although, with many plans you will end up paying a percentage of your hospital and medical bills after your deductible is met.

For example, my third baby ended up costing us over $10,000. That factors in a $600/Month insurance premium, $2,500 deductible, and $5,000 hospital bill. This was the cost of my pregnancy, vaginal birth without an epidural. (Not because I didn’t want it, but my labor went too fast).

How can I afford my pregnancy delivery bills?

Pregnancy costs can get so high it can send anyone into a panic. But, don’t worry there are things you can do to lower these costs and make pregnancy more affordable.

Plan out your pregnancy– If you are lucky enough to be in the family planning stages, do a bit of planning before you get pregnant. Make sure your insurance covers a large portion of your pregnancy. Start a savings account for your pregnancy. Find out how much you will be paying before you conceive. This way you won’t be caught off guard at the high price of your delivery.

Get Free Samples– Don’t spend $100’s on a medical grade breast pump, pregnancy wear, and postpartum recovery supplies. Check to see if you can qualify for a free high quality breast pump and pregnancy / postpartum supplies. The company linked is what I used to get free breast pumps for all 3 of my babies! They provide supplies through your breastfeeding journey, so you never have to pay for those out of pocket. It’s a really great savings.

Research your providers– Make sure you research the hospital and doctors office you want to use during your pregnancy. Some hospitals and medical providers may charge higher fees. They might also have different plans for paying off your hospital bills.

Apply for government assistance– Check resources available from your local and state government. You may qualify for income based insurance or assistance during your pregnancy and beyond.

Start Saving– Start a baby budget planner to see where you can save additional money. There may be subscriptions, like Netflix, or a weekly coffee trip that you can cut out to save for medical bills. Small amounts really add up!

Making Side Money– Start up an income stream that wasn’t there before. Go through your house and find things you don’t need that you can sell. Think about talents and services you can sell to others. (Baked goods, crafts, babysitting). Put this income towards your delivery bill.

Keep Records– Communicate with your insurance company and keep records of your medical bills. Make sure you aren’t being overcharged for medical services during your pregnancy. We’ve had two pregnancies where we were overcharged by the doctor’s office or hospital and received large refunds.

How can I afford to have a baby after pregnancy costs?

After seeing the high cost of delivery you may be wondering how you can even afford to have a baby.

Raising a baby on a budget is possible, even with all the new expenses they bring.

Take advantage of free baby samples, get a free breast pump, and rely on family and friends to help when times are tough.

These small extras might not seem like a lot, but savings add up towards paying off debt from your pregnancy. Some baby registries will give full size samples that will save you a high dollar amount. Stocking up on free formula or a breast pump can save you hundreds!

Babies can be expensive, but don’t let that scare you from starting a family if you really want one. With a little planning and hustle your baby won’t hurt your family budget as much as you thought.

Are you pregnant or planning to start a family? How are you planning on saving on your pregnancy related medical costs? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!