Welcoming a little one into the world is the most exciting and life-altering experience you’ll ever have. It’s also very daunting and a lot of hard work.
It’s important to plan ahead by doing your research and setting up a budget, because having a baby is a huge expense.
Here are seven things to keep in mind when planning for a baby:
Medical cover
It’s going to cost a lot, so ensure that you have some form of medical cover like health insurance, medical aid and/or gap cover.
Know the details of your maternity cover so that you won’t miss out on the full benefits. Things to look out for are:
- How much are you covered for?
- What kind of services are covered?
- Will you have to pay up front first and then claim back?
- What are the waiting periods?
Pre-pregnancy check-ups
Your doctor will cover issues like medical conditions, medications, vaccinations, and family health history.
A gynaecologist will see to your reproductive health and can diagnose and treat issues that might affect your reproductive system.
Prep your body
Start prepping your body to ensure the best possible health for you and your baby:
- Give up smoking
- Stop drinking
- Limit caffeine
- Eat healthy
- Take necessary supplements (check with your doctor first)
- Exercise
- Take prenatal classes
Tests
You’ll need to go for regular check-ups with your obstetrician (or OB/GYN) to ensure that you’re healthy. Ultrasound scans will show the development of your unborn baby where your doctor can detect any issues that might cause problems.
Things you’ll need
There are certain things you’ll need while pregnant and after the birth of your baby, such as:
- Maternity clothing, nursing bras and breast pads
- Breast pump
- Nipple cream
- Nursing pillow
- Clothing for baby, towels and blankets
- Nappies and disposable wipes
- Baby toiletries
- Formula and bottles
- A baby hairbrush, nail clippers and toys
- Crib, pram and car seat
Birth
With different birthing options available, you can have a natural birth or C-Section at a hospital, or a home birth with a registered midwife.
Just remember that all service providers must be fully registered with the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF) or your medical scheme won’t cover the cost.
After your baby is born
You and your baby will have to have exams to ensure that you’re both healthy and healing properly. Your paediatrician will advise you of upcoming tests and vaccinations your baby should go for at each stage of his/her development.
You’ll have to fill out a birth certificate and register your baby. And don’t forget to add your little one on your health insurance and/or medical aid to avoid incurring waiting periods.
GetSavvi Health Maternity Benefits
GetSavvi Health offers Maternity Benefits.* Members can get cover for a normal birth or C-Section at a private hospital. Cover includes gynaecologists’ visits and ultrasound scans, as well as the costs related to birth. There is a 12-month waiting period, and members need to pay up front for services and claim back for reimbursement.
If you’re not a GetSavvi Health member and would like access to quality primary healthcare (including Maternity Benefits) and value-added benefits at an affordable rate, click here for an obligations-free quote.
*Not available to seniors on the Primary Care Plan 60+.
References
Preparing for Pregnancy: Your 3-Month Guide
Newborn checklist: Everything you need before your baby arrives
Here's What to Expect After Giving Birth in a Hospital
Planning for Pregnancy
What is the difference between OB/GYN and gynecology?
Ultrasound scan