Why healthcare cover is important in pregnancy

Ensuring that you are covered during your pregnancy is one of the most important decisions you can make for your health and the health of your unborn baby.

Healthcare insurance during pregnancy and afterwards helps to give you peace of mind that, in the event of a medical emergency, you and baby are covered, and that your baby will have the best chance at life.

Your health matters

As soon as you find out that you are pregnant, schedule your first pre-natal appointment. You should go for your first pregnancy checkup as early as seven to eight weeks for a risk assessment, and continue to go regularly throughout your pregnancy.

These checkups are important, as an initial risk assessment allows your gynaecologist to provide you with a personalised care approach and identify any potential problems early to allow for the best care possible for both you and your baby.

These checkups include routine tests such as blood tests and ultrasound scans.

Your doctor will also provide you with dietary guidelines, as good nutrition is critical during pregnancy. It is important to note that you should be eating twice as well during your pregnancy, and not for two people.

Protect your growing baby’s health

To protect your baby’s developing health; you should stop smoking, and avoid alcohol to prevent your baby from being born with Foetal Alcohol Syndrome.

Exercise regularly and ensure you get enough rest for your body and mind.

You should also ensure that the food you eat is hygienic and well prepared and cooked to prevent any illnesses caused by food from affecting your baby.

Healthcare cover for you and your baby

The type of cover you will receive depends on what kind of health plan you have. It is important to check that your preferred doctor and hospital are included within your healthcare’s network to avoid co-payments.

Decide where your baby will be born

Deciding where your baby will be born is an important part of your pregnancy. While natural birth is generally covered in full, a caesarean is generally only covered if it is a medical necessity. You would also need to check if your healthcare covers a home or water birth.

For more information on Discovery, visit www.discovery.co.za

• About
• Latest Posts

Lara Bestbier

Writer. Creative. Word-nerd. Aspiring photographer. Old wife. Brand new member of the elite society called mommy-hood. Mom to the only drama queen more demanding than me. “Life’s too short to keep a straight face”.

Latest posts by Lara Bestbier (see all)

• Your newborn’s reflexes - June 27, 2014
• 5 benefits of creating a routine for your baby - June 23, 2014
• Eat a big breakfast to increase your fertility - June 18, 2014