Updated on 2 Dec 2025
Maternity insurance helps cover the medical costs of pregnancy, delivery and newborn care. A common question is whether pre and postnatal expenses are included within the maternity coverage limit. This includes doctor visits, tests, scans and medicines before and after delivery. Knowing whether these costs are included in the overall maternity limit is important for planning finances and avoiding unexpected bills.
This blog examines how various medical insurance policies address pre- and postnatal expenses, offering clarity on coverage details and enabling expectant parents to plan their finances with confidence.
What are pre and postnatal expenses?
Pre- and postnatal expenses are the medical costs incurred before and after childbirth. Prenatal expenses include regular checkups, ultrasounds, blood tests and consultations during pregnancy. Postnatal expenses cover hospital care, follow-up checkups and medicines for both the mother and the newborn after delivery. It ensures the good care of both the mother and the baby throughout the pregnancy and post-pregnancy period.
How health insurance covers pre and postnatal expenses?
Health insurance offers a specific type of coverage known as “maternity cover". This is designed to provide financial assistance for pre- and postnatal care costs.
Maternity coverage typically covers a range of childbirth-related expenses, including:
- Hospitalisation costs associated with delivery
- Fees related to the childbirth process
- Expenses for prenatal and post-operative appointments
- Medical examination charges
1. Prenatal care
Prenatal care is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Health insurance plans with maternity cover can help pay for doctor's visits, ultrasound scans, blood tests, and other necessary prenatal appointments.
2. postnatal care
After the baby arrives, postnatal care is essential for both the mother and the newborn. Health insurance can assist with expenses related to postpartum checkups, vaccinations and any unforeseen medical needs.
3. Financial peace of mind
Maternity cover provides peace of mind by helping you manage the financial burden associated with pregnancy and childbirth. It ensures that you can focus on what truly matters- the health and well-being of both you and your baby.
What are the inclusions & exclusions under maternity insurance?
Maternity insurance typically covers hospital expenses associated with pregnancy and delivery. The table will show you what it includes and excludes:
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Inclusions
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Exclusions
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Prenatal checkups, ultrasound and lab tests.
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Cosmetic procedures or elective abortions.
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Delivery charges (normal / C-section).
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Non-medical expenses such as baby clothes, diapers, etc.
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postnatal care, medicines and follow-up consultations.
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Fertility treatments like IVF or surrogacy.
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Hospitalisation costs related to pregnancy.
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Injuries or illnesses not related to pregnancy.
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Vaccination and supplements during pregnancy.
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Expenses exceeding the policy limit.
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What are the benefits of maternity health insurance policy?
Maternity insurance covers all the costs associated with hospital care related to pregnancy and post-pregnancy. It reduces the financial burden of hospital stays, doctor consultations, tests and medications. Few policies offer coverage of vaccines and newborn care. By providing cashless treatment at network hospitals, it ensures timely and quality healthcare.
Overall, it offers financial protection, peace of mind, and support for both the mother and baby throughout the pregnancy period.
Conclusion
Pre and postnatal medical expenses play a crucial role in ensuring the health of both mother and baby during pregnancy and after delivery. In many maternity insurance plans, these costs are included within the overall maternity limit and cover regular checkups. Understanding the policy terms is important to know the inclusions and helps avoid unexpected bills.
While reviewing the various policies, it's beneficial to determine the best health insurance for parents by completing the form on this page. Let the experts help you select a plan that suits your needs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.