Updated on - 05 Feb 2026
Maternity insurance is a plan under a health insurance policy that covers medical costs related to pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal care. It helps you manage the costs of prenatal check-ups, hospitalisation, delivery and newborn care, providing financial support during this important phase of life.
However, before you can start claiming these benefits, there is an important aspect to be aware of: the waiting period. This is a specific time frame during which maternity-related expenses are not covered, even though the policy is active. It is important to understand what this means to plan your coverage and avoid unexpected costs.
What is the waiting period for maternity insurance?
The waiting period for maternity health insurance is when the policyholder cannot claim any benefits related to pregnancy, childbirth or postnatal care. This period prevents immediate claims after a policy is purchased, ensuring the insurance system remains sustainable and fair. Typically, the waiting period for maternity insurance in India is 24 months or 2 years, although it may vary depending on the insurer and the type of plan selected.
Why is the waiting period in pregnancy insurance helpful?
While the waiting period for health insurance&>might seem like a hurdle, it serves several beneficial purposes:
1. Financial planning
For couples who are planning a family in the near future, buying maternity insurance in advance allows them to pass the waiting period without any stress. This ensures that expectant parents are able to plan their finances and make the most of the benefits offered by the insurance.
2. Affordable premiums
The waiting period allows the insurance provider to ensure that there are no immediate high-cost claims involved and also helps lower premium costs for the policyholder.
3. Prevent adverse selection
If all policyholders purchase maternity insurance immediately before childbirth, this may discourage the insurance providers and lead to reduced maternity benefits or the end of the policy altogether. By mandating a waiting period, insurance companies make sure that maternity insurance remains a positive practice and is affordable for a larger number of people.
Types of waiting periods in maternity health insurance
Maternity health insurance plans may encompass various types of waiting periods, each serving a distinct purpose:
1. Initial waiting period
The initial waiting period is the time between the policy’s start date and when the policyholder becomes eligible to claim maternity benefits. It is at least a minimum of 30 days.
2. Maternity waiting period
The maternity cover waiting period is the time between the end of the initial waiting period and the start of the coverage for maternity expenses. This period is usually 24 months or 2 years. The policyholder must wait for this time before claiming benefits related to pregnancy and childbirth.
3. Pre-existing disease waiting period
Some policies may also have waiting periods for pre-existing diseases. This waiting period is between the policy’s start date and when the coverage begins for medical conditions that existed before the policy’s start date. The duration of this waiting period can range from 2 to 4 years.
4. Specific disease waiting period
This waiting period is the time between the policy’s start date and when the coverage begins for specific medical conditions or procedures. The duration of this waiting is generally a minimum of 2 years. Unfortunately, maternity insurance coverage with no waiting period is not available in India.
How does the waiting period work in maternity health insurance?
The waiting period in maternity health insurance works like a buffer time before you can use the policy for pregnancy-related expenses. After buying the policy, you need to stay covered for a set duration before maternity benefits become active.
During this time, you can use other health benefits if included, but not maternity ones. Once the waiting period ends, you can claim expenses for delivery, hospitalisation and related medical care according to your policy terms.
Can the maternity insurance waiting period be reduced?
Yes, the waiting period for maternity insurance can be reduced. The waiting period can go down from 24 months to 12 months. This option is available only when you select the maternity benefit add-on while buying the policy and applies to the annual sum insured chosen at that time. However, this optional cover must be continued for at least two consecutive policy years. If you need guidance related to this, fill out the form provided below.
Conclusion
It is important to be aware of the waiting period in maternity health insurance, as it affects when you can start claiming benefits for pregnancy-related expenses. By purchasing the policy early, you allow the waiting period to be completed in time, ensuring coverage is available when needed.
It’s always a good idea to read your policy terms carefully and choose add-on covers if you want to reduce the waiting time. Planning ahead gives you financial comfort and peace of mind during one of the most important phases of life.
FAQs
1. When should I buy maternity insurance to avoid delays?
It is best to buy the policy well before planning a pregnancy, so the waiting period is completed in time to use the maternity benefits.
2. What happens if I claim maternity benefits during the waiting period?
Claims made during the waiting period will not be accepted, and the expenses will have to be borne personally.
3. Are all types of deliveries covered after the waiting period?
Yes, both normal and C-section deliveries are covered once the waiting period ends, subject to policy terms.
4. What happens if I change my insurer during the waiting period?
If you switch insurers, the new insurer may ask you to restart the waiting period unless they offer portability benefits, where the waiting period already served is taken into account.
5. Can both spouses claim maternity insurance?
Yes, if both husband and wife have separate maternity health insurance policies, each can claim benefits from their respective plans.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.
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