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In short Check Medicaid and CHIP Marketplace coverage Health centers and clinics Ask about prices and payment plans Do not wait to be seen Cash prices for common tests Common questions SourcesIf you are pregnant and do not have insurance, apply for coverage first and get your first prenatal visit booked in the meantime. Medicaid and CHIP can cover pregnancy care, and rules vary by state. Community health centers also provide prenatal care and charge based on income.
Check Medicaid and CHIP
HealthCare.gov explains that Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide coverage to people with limited income, and that you can apply any time of year. Pregnancy often changes eligibility, and income limits differ by state, so apply even if you think you earn too much. See our guide on how to apply for Medicaid.
Marketplace coverage
Having a baby is a qualifying life event for a Special Enrollment Period, which lets you enroll outside open enrollment. Being pregnant by itself is not a reason to qualify in every case, so check HealthCare.gov for your situation and timing. See Marketplace open enrollment.
Health centers and clinics
Federally funded health centers see patients whether or not they have insurance and set fees by income. Many offer prenatal care. You can search for one near you at the HRSA site below, and read our guide on community health centers. Teaching hospitals and local health departments may also have programs, see teaching hospital clinics.
Ask about prices and payment plans
If you plan to pay yourself, ask the practice for a package price for prenatal care and delivery, and ask for a written estimate. See our guides on the good faith estimate, asking for a self-pay discount, hospital charity care and hospital payment plans.
Do not wait to be seen
Early and regular prenatal visits help catch problems. Call your provider or go to the ER right away for heavy bleeding, severe belly pain, a sudden severe headache, or trouble breathing. If you are unsure, our guide on pregnancy tests and when to see a doctor is a start.
Cash prices for common tests
For typical cash prices of common labs and scans, see our lab test prices and scan prices. Prenatal care has many parts, so prices vary a lot. Always ask the practice.
- HealthCare.gov - Medicaid and CHIP
- HealthCare.gov - Special Enrollment Period
- HRSA - Find a health center
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Common questions
Can I get Medicaid while pregnant?
Possibly. Eligibility depends on your state and income. You can apply any time of year at HealthCare.gov or your state Medicaid office.
Where can I get prenatal care if I have no insurance?
Federally funded health centers see patients regardless of insurance and charge based on income. Many offer prenatal care.
Should I wait for coverage before my first visit?
No. Book a visit and apply for coverage at the same time. Ask the office about payment options.
Can Pymander give me prenatal care?
No. Pymander does not provide prenatal care or examine you. It can help with everyday questions and tell you when to seek care. Pymander is available in all 50 states.
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.