Becoming a mother or a father is one of the greatest joys in life, isn't it? However, we also need to be a little prepared to accept that joy. Especially financially. If we are aware of the expenses that we will have to incur for the new little guest coming to the house in advance and plan for it well, we will have peace of mind. So today, let's talk about what kind of expenses we will have to incur for the new addition to your family, and how we can prepare for them.
What options do we have in Sri Lanka?
First of all, we need to understand that in Sri Lanka, when we are expecting a baby, there are two main options to choose from. One is the government hospital system . The other is private hospitals . The costs involved in these two are very different.
1. If you choose a government hospital...
The government healthcare system in Sri Lanka is really high quality. If you choose a government hospital, you will get everything from prenatal clinics, tests, delivery, hospital stay, and necessary medications completely free of charge . This is a real relief.
However, there may be some indirect costs . Think about it this way.
- Travel expenses to and from clinics.
- Sometimes, things like a scan that has to be done outside due to a machine malfunction at the hospital.
- If you wish, if you personally meet and channel a doctor working at the government hospital, you will have to pay a certain fee for that.
The most important thing is that the medical service and care you receive at a government hospital is very high. You don't have to worry too much about money.
2. If you choose a private hospital...
When choosing a private hospital, you will have to spend some money. But you can also expect certain amenities, such as a single room, more attention, etc. Here, the costs can be divided into several main parts.
How to divide expenses in a private hospital
It's hard to give a straight answer to the total cost of a private hospital. It varies depending on the hospital you choose, the city, the doctor , and any complications that may arise during delivery. Let's get a rough idea of these costs.
| Expenditure Section | Things that are usually included and a rough idea |
|---|---|
| Antenatal Costs | This includes channeling fees, ultrasound scans, blood tests, and other lab tests, which can cost thousands of rupees per month. |
| Delivery Costs | This is the biggest expense. Most private hospitals have separate packages for normal delivery and Caesarean section (C-section). This package includes things like hospital fees, operating room fees, and nursing fees. However, often the doctors' fees (VOG, anesthesiologist, pediatrician) are not included in this package. They have to be paid separately. This can cost approximately Rs. 200,000 to Rs. 500,000 or even more. |
| Postpartum Costs | The costs of follow-up visits to the doctor after the baby is born, and the costs of getting the baby's necessary vaccinations privately, are added to this. |
It is important that if you choose a private hospital, call the hospital in advance and ask them clearly about their packages, what is included and what is not. Also, discuss this with your doctor.
Cost of medicines and vitamins
Your doctor will advise you to take essential vitamins like folic acid and iron during pregnancy.
- You get all this for free at a government hospital .
- If you are seeking treatment privately , you will have to pay for these vitamins and other necessary medications at a pharmacy.
But remember, after your doctor recommends certain prenatal vitamins, check to see if they are covered by your insurance.
Expenses beyond medical bills
Now let's talk about the expenses that go into preparing for the baby, in addition to the hospital bills. This is an expense that many parents are reluctant to make.
Here are some essentials for a baby:
- A crib for the baby to sleep in (Crib / Cot)
- If you are going by car, a car seat is a must.
- Diapers and Wipes
- Some baby clothes
- Baby tub
- If you are not a breastfeeding mother, formula and baby bottles
- A baby monitor - This is not essential, but very handy.
A little advice...
When buying these things, you can even buy some used (secondhand). For example, baby clothes. However, it is best to buy things that are directly related to safety, such as a car seat or a crib, new . Because we need to be able to be sure of their safety standards.
Child Care Costs
If both parents work, finding someone to take care of the child after the baby is born is also a big expense.
- If you are putting your child in a daycare center, the monthly payment will be for that.
- If you find someone to stay at home and take care of the baby (Nanny / Helper), what is the salary that you will have to pay that person.
Sometimes one of the parents, usually the mother, decides to take a break from work to take care of the baby. In that case, the lost income can be considered an indirect cost that is added to these expenses.
All things considered, having a baby is a beautiful change in life, but it is also a huge responsibility. By knowing these costs in advance and planning for them together, you can welcome your new baby without any stress.
Take-Home Message
- Plan ahead: It's worth thinking about these expenses and starting to save a little while before you even think about having a baby.
- Choose your option: Decide whether to go to a government or private hospital based on your financial situation and preferences. Understand the pros and cons of both.
- Be clear: If you choose a private hospital, be sure to ask about fees, packages, and exclusions upfront. Talk to your doctor about this openly.
- Reduce unnecessary expenses: Make a list of things your baby needs. Prioritize the essentials. You don't need to buy everything at once.
- Be happy: Don't stress yourself out by thinking too much about these expenses. With good planning, you can manage all of this. The most important thing is to spend this beautiful time happily and healthily.
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