Preparing for a new baby is thrilling—but it also comes with many new responsibilities. One thing that can make life easier? Health insurance! If you’re an expat living in Portugal, or simply exploring private healthcare, it’s worth understanding how health insurance covers pregnancy and why it’s so valuable.
Does Health Insurance Cover Pregnancy?
Yes! Most health insurance plans in Portugal cover a variety of pregnancy-related expenses. Private health insurance can give you more control over which doctors and hospitals you choose, and it typically covers prenatal care, ultrasounds, tests, and labor and delivery in a private hospital.
The Waiting Period: Planning Ahead is Key
One important thing to keep in mind is the waiting period. For pregnancy, most insurers require that your policy be active for around 12 months before they’ll cover pregnancy-related costs. This means if you’re thinking of starting a family, it’s a good idea to get your insurance sorted out sooner rather than later.
Here’s a look at waiting periods from some of the top insurers in Portugal:
| Insurance Company | Waiting Period for Pregnancy Coverage | Type of Insurance |
| Cigna | 12 months | International |
| Foyer | 10-12 months | International |
| Medis | 12 months | National |
| Multicare | 12 months | National |
| Allianz | 12 months | National |
| Tranquilidade-Generali | 12 months | National |
What’s Covered?
Once the waiting period is over, your insurance will generally cover:
- Routine prenatal checkups
- Ultrasounds and diagnostic tests
- Labor and delivery costs in a private hospital
- Emergency care if any complications arise
But there’s another essential reason to have health insurance in place before your baby arrives—coverage for your newborn.
Cover from Day One: Why Insurance Matters for Your Newborn
One of the biggest benefits of having health insurance during pregnancy isn’t just for prenatal care; it’s also about protecting your baby from day one. Here’s why:
- Automatic Coverage: If the mother already has health insurance, most insurers automatically cover the newborn from birth. This means that even if the baby has a congenital condition, it won’t be considered a “pre-existing condition,” and there won’t be any additional waiting periods.
- Financial Protection: In the unfortunate event that the newborn has a congenital issue, medical expenses can be incredibly high. Without insurance, these costs could be financially overwhelming for many families. Health insurance ensures the baby has immediate access to the necessary care without putting a financial strain on the family.
Having this coverage from moment zero is one of the most valuable aspects of health insurance, as it can be life-saving and financially stabilizing for families.
So, When is the Right Time to Add Your Baby to the Health Insurance?
The best time to include your baby in your health insurance plan is ideally a few weeks before the birth. This ensures that the insurance is prepared to cover your child from the very beginning. If you miss this, make sure to add your baby within the first couple of days after birth. Most insurers have a mandatory deadline of 30 days for adding newborns, but it’s best to ensure coverage as soon as possible to include any congenital conditions. Some conditions may only be diagnosed a few weeks after birth, so acting early is essential!
Planning for Parenthood? Consider Your Insurance Options
If you’re in Portugal and considering expanding your family, getting health insurance in place is a smart step. By planning ahead, you ensure your pregnancy and your child’s health are fully covered from the beginning, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.
And if you have any questions about which policy is best for your family, feel free to reach out to our team. We’re here to help expats navigate insurance in Portugal, from pregnancy to newborn coverage, and everything in between!
