How much does it cost to have a baby?

According to a recent Health Affairs study, the average cost for a “maternity stay ranged from $1,189 to $11,986” for low-risk pregnancies.

That’s a wide range. So, what affects the costs?

Here are 5 factors that will affect your bills when it’s time to welcome your bundle of joy.

5 Factors that Affect the Cost of Having a Baby 

1. Does Your Insurance Cover Pregnancy? 

If you work for a company that provides health insurance and employs at least 15 full-time employees, good news - they must include pregnancy coverage in their health insurance.

If you work for a small company, or have independent health insurance, chances are that pregnancy is not covered. Check out this VeryWell article to learn about your Options if You’re Pregnant with No Maternity Insurance.

Set on a particular clinic? Check out their website to learn about your options. 

2. What is Your Deductible?  

Knowing your annual deductible will help you understand how much you’ll have to pay out of pocket before your insurance begins to cover a larger portion of the bills. Keep in mind that even after your deductible is met, you’ll still be responsible for copays.

Will your pregnancy span two calendar years? Keep in mind that your deductible may reset if your OB does not offer global billing (where the charges are grouped together after you deliver).  

3. What Tests are Covered by Your Insurance? 

Depending on your insurance, different prenatal tests will be covered. Curious about the cost of common prenatal tests? Check out this ValuePenguin article.

Health insurance will often cover recommended genetic testing. See the National Institute of Health website for details.

4. How Long Will Your Hospital Stay Be?

Staying overnight in the hospital adds up, so having an estimate for the number of nights you'll spend will help you get a clearer picture of your finances. 

If you deliver vaginally, you'll usually stay in the hospital 1-2 nights after giving birth. If you deliver via c-section, plan to stay 2-4 nights.

Common reasons for a c-section include a twin or other multiple pregnancy, a previous c-section with a vertical uterine incision, or a breech baby. An Unplanned or emergency c-section can also occur if your doctor determines one is necessary for you and your baby. 

5. What Have You Budgeted for Baby Supplies? 

In addition to the hospital costs, there are baby products and supplies you'll need to account for. And, it's common for first-time parents to purchase the best-of-the-best when it comes to items such as a crib, stroller, clothes, and more, as you want what's best for your new bundle of joy. 

To help you budget, consider going top-of-the-line (or what you can afford) only on the items that will take a great deal of wear and tear (i.e. stroller), as well as any item that can protect your baby (i.e. car seat). Then, cut back on spending a large amount of money on products that are aesthetically-pleasing but don't serve a real purpose (i.e. room decor) or won't last long (i.e. baby shoes).

Keep Costs Down With an In-Network Provider and Hospital 

If you choose to see a provider out of your network, you will often be responsible for the full costs. Verify that both your hospital and your provider are in your insurance network.

Find the Best OB/GYN for You and Your Baby 

Finding the right OB/GYN is a big decision. There are a lot of things to consider when you’re choosing a doctor for yourself and your baby, and insurance is just the start.

What else should you consider? This checklist will help you evaluate your options, and find a women’s clinic that’s right for you.