Singapore is known for its high standards in healthcare, and maternity care is no exception. However, great care comes at a cost. Although we hope that your pregnancy journey will be a smooth one, it can sometimes be unpredictable and challenging.
If you’re planning on having a baby, consider getting maternity insurance early. This is because the price of the premium is the same whether you’re getting it at 13 weeks or 30 weeks -- and more protection is always better in this case!
What is maternity insurance?
Also known as pregnancy insurance, maternity insurance is a form of health insurance that covers unexpected complications that arise during pregnancy and delivery for both mother and the child.
It’s worth noting that it doesn’t cover the cost of delivery and hospitalisation bills, though. It comes in the form of a lump sum payout or daily hospital cash to cover additional medical costs.
What does it cover?
Pregnancy complications
The payout specifically covers pregnancy complications. Depending on the insurer you’re getting the maternity insurance from, the range may vary slightly, but would generally cover:
Abruptio placentae
Amniotic fluid embolism
Disseminated intravascular coagulation
Fatty liver of pregnancy
Placenta increta / percreta
Postpartum haemorrhage requiring hysterectomy
Pre-Eclampsia / eclampsia
Stillbirth
Congenital disorders
Anal atresia
Atrial septal defect
Absence of two limbs
Cleft palate / cleft lip
Cerebral palsy
Clubfoot
Congenital dislocation of the hip
Congenital cataract
Congenital deafness
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Down syndrome
Infantile hydrocephalus
Retinopathy of prematurity
Spina bifida
Tetralogy fallot
Transposition of great vessel
Truncus arteriosus
Ventricular septal defect
Cash Benefits
Depending on the policy you choose, you may receive cash payouts if you or your baby are warded for the conditions covered.
When should I purchase maternity insurance?
Those who are between 18 and 45 years old and are already pregnant may purchase maternity insurance. Policies generally begin for mums who are a minimum of 13 weeks pregnant -- again, this may vary slightly depending on the provider of the policy.
It’s advisable to get your maternity insurance as early as you can, since it provides you with protection for any complications that might arise during pregnancy.