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Head of Financial Education at Old Mutual, John Manyike outlines the key elements to consider for a financially stress-free pregnancy:
In your first trimester:
- Research antenatal care options.
- Decide where you would like to give birth.
- Enquire about the different costs involved including doctor’s visits and scans.
- Find out what antenatal care your current medical aid covers.
- Opt for the best medical care you can afford. If you can’t afford a medical aid, government clinics and hospitals provide this care free of charge.
- Open a savings account and put as much money aside as possible to ensure a robust savings cushion for your soon-to-be bundle of joy.
Second trimester:
- Don’t splurge on maternity clothing as it is only temporary. Only purchase the necessities, like a couple of dresses, tights and tunics that will see you through the nine months.
- If you are employed, contact your HR manager to find out about your company’s policy regarding maternity leave and benefits. Legally you are allowed four months off work, but most companies offer this as unpaid, not paid leave.
- Visit your local UIF office or download the required forms to apply for your maternity benefits.
Third trimester:
- By this time, you should have booked your bed at the hospital or clinic of your choice.
- Start shopping for baby essentials like clothes, nappies, a cot, a car seat and linen. Pre-loved and used baby items can also be bought or borrowed through family, friends and forums. Chances also are your friends and family will organise a baby shower for you. So before you duplicate items, wait to see what you are lucky enough to receive. If you can’t wait, keep your receipts in case you need to exchange or return items.
- Know your budget and don’t let your excitement overtake your reasoning. Only buy what you can afford!
“Nothing beats being prepared. It gives you the freedom to enjoy this new parenting journey you are embarking on. Having a baby could be expensive, but proper planning is the first step to your young family’s financial wellbeing. This Mother’s Day we should also appreciate all the preparation and budgeting that our own mothers (and sometimes grandmothers and aunts too) have done over the years to give us the best life they could,” concludes Manyike.
