For many young couples, one of the most important health insurance features is maternity cover. It ensures that the costs related to childbirth — from hospital delivery charges to newborn care — are partly or fully covered by your policy.
However, maternity benefits in India’s health insurance plans come with conditions: waiting periods, sub-limits, and exclusions that you must understand before relying on the cover. In 2025, with hospital delivery costs in metro cities reaching ₹60,000–₹2 lakh, knowing the fine print can save you from unexpected bills.
Key Features of Maternity Cover
| Feature | Typical Details |
|---|---|
| Waiting Period | 2–4 years from policy start date before maternity is covered |
| Sum Insured Limit | ₹25,000–₹75,000 per delivery (varies by insurer) |
| Delivery Type | Both normal and C-section deliveries covered, with different limits |
| Newborn Cover | Usually covers baby’s expenses for first 90 days; can be extended with add-on |
| Exclusions | Fertility treatments, vitamins, and pre-existing complications often excluded |
How to Use Maternity Cover Effectively
- Buy Early: Since there’s a waiting period, purchase a plan well before you plan pregnancy.
- Check Sub-Limits: Ensure the maternity limit matches hospital delivery costs in your city.
- Include Newborn Cover: Add this option so your baby is protected from day one.
- Compare Before Buying: Not all insurers offer maternity cover in standard plans — sometimes it’s an add-on.
Case Example
Ananya and Rohit bought a family floater plan with ₹50,000 maternity limit and 3-year waiting period. Their delivery bill for a C-section was ₹1.2 lakh. The insurance covered ₹50,000, leaving them to pay the rest — but without insurance, the cost would have been double the financial strain.
Maternity cover is not just about saving money — it’s about planning ahead so your focus stays on the new arrival, not the bills.
Plan your health cover like you plan your family — well in advance. Share this eBharat.com guide so more couples can welcome their baby without financial stress.
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