By: Setu Shah, Founder & CEO of Financial Doula

Having a baby for the first time comes with many firsts. From understanding how to care for a newborn
to determining what baby products to buy, often parents learn as they go. One major first that many
first-time, expecting parents experience is interacting with health insurance and our healthcare system.

At a basic level, it is pretty simple. You are about to embark on a journey that requires care by
healthcare professionals and your health insurance will cover some portion of those costs. But what
many people don’t realize is that your health insurance could cover A LOT more.

Here are 5 maternity-related products or services that health insurance companies may cover beyond
your standard medical care:

1. Breast pump:

Insurance typically covers a breast pump (manual or electric), which can be
essential for mothers who plan to breastfeed, especially if returning to work. Some plans may
also cover replacement parts or supplies.

2. Lactation Consultation Services:

While not a product, lactation consultation services are often
covered to help new mothers with breastfeeding, and they sometimes include breastfeeding
supplies like nipple shields and milk storage bags.

3. Compression Stockings:

Compression stockings help improve circulation and reduce swelling
during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. These are often covered if medically
necessary.

4. Maternity Support Belts:

A maternity support belt helps alleviate back pain and support the
growing belly during pregnancy, and many plans cover them if prescribed by a doctor.

5. Postpartum Recovery Garments:

Some insurance plans cover postpartum recovery garments
such as C-panties (designed to aid recovery after a C-section) or abdominal binders.

Typically maternity-related products or services that are deemed “medically necessary” by your
healthcare provider could be justification for coverage by your health insurance. However, every health
insurance provider and plan is different, and it will depend on your unique situation whether or not
these products or services are covered.

Always ASK if they are covered and how much they are covered before purchasing.

 

 

If you need help figuring out if your plan covers these items or navigating your health insurance as you
grow you family, reach out at info@financialdoula.com or @financialdoula anytime!

 

 

About Financial Doula

Financial Doula, LLC is a small business dedicated to helping expecting parents financially prepare for the
first year of parenthood and beyond. The mission is to help every expecting parent enter parenthood
financially educated, prepared, and stress-free. Setu Shah is the Founder & CEO and has over 15 years of
finance and healthcare experience, with an MBA from Emory University. She is also the proud mama of
a sweet two-year-old boy and strives to be a positive role model to him every day.