Waiting Period in Maternity Health Insurance

The waiting period for maternity health insurance varies from 9 months to 6 years, depending on the insurer and plan. This period impacts medical expenses and timely access to maternity coverage.
Explore Plans
Check Health Insurance Plans
Get Quote
3 mins
25-August-2025

Becoming a parent is an exciting and life-changing experience. The anticipation of a new arrival brings with it joy and nervousness. In addition to the emotional rollercoaster, it also brings financial responsibilities, such as prenatal and postnatal medical care, childbirth expenses, and infant care. This is where maternity health insurance comes in – to make sure you have the financial protection you need during this important stage of your life, especially considering the maternity insurance waiting period.

In this article, we will explore the concept of maternity insurance with no waiting period. Know the eligibility criteria for maternity insurance, and ways to choose the best maternity cover.

What is maternity insurance?

Maternity insurance is a specialised type of health insurance policy that covers pregnancy-related expenses. It can cover a range of expenses including prenatal tests, doctor consultations, hospitalisation expenses, childbirth, and post-natal care. You can buy maternity insurance as a standalone policy or buy a health insurance policy with maternity cover, including maternity insurance plans with no waiting period. With the right coverage, expectant parents can have peace of mind knowing that they are covered financially at every stage of the pregnancy journey.

Maternity insurance is a specialized health insurance policy designed to cover pregnancy-related expenses, ensuring financial security for expectant parents. It typically includes coverage for:

  • Prenatal care – Doctor consultations, ultrasounds, and necessary medical tests.
  • Hospitalization expenses – Costs related to delivery, whether normal or C-section.
  • Postnatal care – Medical care for the mother and newborn after delivery.

You can purchase maternity insurance as a standalone policy or as an add-on to a health insurance plan. Some maternity plans even offer zero waiting periods, allowing immediate access to benefits.

Types of waiting periods in maternity health insurance plans

When it comes to securing your health, having a comprehensive health insurance policy is crucial. One crucial aspect of most health insurance policies is the waiting period, which refers to the time period during which certain medical conditions are not covered. For those seeking immediate coverage, health insurance with no waiting period can be particularly beneficial. Here are types of waiting periods in health insurance, including the waiting period for maternity insurance:

Initial waiting period:

This refers to the period starting from the commencement of the policy, during which no benefits are payable by the insurer for hospitalisation, specific illnesses, or treatments.

Waiting period for pre-existing diseases:

Any condition, disease, or ailment diagnosed forty-eight months before buying a health insurance policy is considered as a pre-existing disease. For pre-existing medical conditions not covered from day one of the policy, the policyholder must wait for the prescribed waiting period before claiming any benefits.

Maternity waiting period:

This waiting period applies to maternity insurance plans, and it is typically twelve months. However, some insurance providers may offer maternity insurance plans with no waiting period.

Waiting period for certain illnesses:

Certain medical conditions, such as hernia, sinusitis, and cataract surgeries, have a waiting period of around two to three years.

Also, read: Types of health insurance

Pro Tip

Buy maternity insurance early! Most plans have a waiting period of 9-48 months, so securing coverage in advance ensures financial support when you need it most.

Maternity

Why is the waiting period for pregnancy insurance important?

The waiting period in pregnancy insurance, though it may initially appear restrictive, serves an essential function in maintaining the stability of insurance policies. It ensures that policyholders do not enrol solely to claim benefits immediately after purchasing the policy. This measure helps insurers maintain a balanced risk pool and mitigate adverse selection. However, for those seeking immediate financial protection, certain health insurance plans offer maternity cover with no waiting period, allowing policyholders to access maternity benefits without delay.

  • Cost management for insurers: The waiting period helps insurers manage costs effectively by ensuring that claims are distributed over time rather than arising immediately after policy purchase. This controlled approach to claim processing prevents financial strain on the insurer, thereby contributing to the long-term sustainability of maternity insurance policies. It also enables insurers to keep premiums at reasonable levels while maintaining comprehensive coverage.

  • Encourages long-term policy commitment: By implementing a waiting period, insurers promote long-term commitment from policyholders, discouraging short-term enrolments solely for maternity benefits. This approach fosters a more stable insurance ecosystem, where individuals maintain continuous coverage for overall health needs rather than opting in only when maternity expenses arise. Long-term policyholders also benefit from additional health coverage beyond maternity, ensuring broader financial protection.

  • Discourages adverse selection: Adverse selection occurs when individuals purchase insurance only when they anticipate an immediate claim. The waiting period prevents this by ensuring that policyholders contribute to the insurance pool before availing themselves of maternity benefits. This measure helps maintain a balanced risk distribution, allowing insurers to offer sustainable and equitable coverage to all policyholders. Without a waiting period, insurers would face higher risks, potentially leading to increased premiums for all policyholders.

What is the waiting period for maternity insurance coverage?

A waiting period is a duration during which you cannot claim insurance benefits. Since maternity care requires long-term planning, several health insurance providers impose a waiting period before you can claim maternity-related expenses. These waiting periods vary between policies, typically ranging from nine months to four years. The maternity cover waiting period begins after an initial minimum waiting period of 30 days.

This waiting period is designed to ensure policyholders plan their maternity coverage well in advance. Some insurers offer shorter waiting periods, while others may require up to six years of waiting. It is essential to compare policies and select one with the lowest waiting period to ensure timely financial protection for maternity expenses. Additionally, some insurers provide maternity coverage with no waiting period, allowing immediate access to benefits under specific plans.

Maternity insurance plans with no waiting period

If you want to enjoy immediate coverage on your maternity health insurance policy, you need to opt for a maternity health insurance no waiting period plan. These plans provide instant coverage for maternity expenses from the date of policy inception. With no waiting period, you receive coverage for consultation fees, hospitalisation expenses, and other maternity-related costs from day one.

Additionally, if immediate coverage is not available, you can explore maternity insurance plans with the lowest waiting period to ensure you get financial protection as soon as possible. Comparing different policies can help you find the most suitable plan that aligns with your maternity healthcare needs.

Steps to buy health insurance on Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall

Follow these steps to buy health insurance through Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall.

Step 1: Click on ‘Get Quote’ to open our online application form.

Step 2: Fill in the application form with some basic details of the insured/proposer. Fill in the name, gender, mobile number, date of birth, and residential PIN code. 

Step 3: Now click on ‘Get Quote’ to proceed.

Step 4: From the list of policies shown, choose any comprehensive health insurance by clicking on ‘Buy Now’. 

Step 5: Select the policy term and premium amount.

Step 6: Enter your email ID and check if all personal details shown are correct. Click on ‘Next’ to proceed.

Step 7: Enter some additional details, such as height, weight, nationality, marital status, address, and nominee details (if applicable).

Step 8: Answer a few questions about your health and lifestyle by clicking the relevant checkboxes. Click on ‘Next’ button to proceed.

Step 9: Verify if the previously filled details are correct and click on the ‘Proceed’ button to visit the payment page.

Step 10: Make the payment through net banking, UPI, debit, or credit card to buy the policy.

Conclusion

The waiting period for maternity health insurance typically ranges from nine months to six years, depending on the insurer and policy. Being aware of this timeframe is essential for ensuring timely coverage of maternity expenses. Planning ahead allows better management of medical costs, reducing financial strain. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout pregnancy is vital, and tools like a BMI calculator can help monitor weight and overall well-being. Selecting a maternity insurance plan with suitable coverage and minimal waiting time ensures financial stability and access to quality maternity care when it is most needed.

Top Health Insurance Plans

Private Medical Insurance

Group Health Insurance

Individual Health Insurance

Family Health Insurance

Mediclaim Insurance

Senior Citizens Health Insurance

Maternity Insurance

Health Insurance For Parents

Critical Health Insurance

Frequently asked questions

How can I obtain maternity insurance without a waiting period?

In India, it's common for maternity insurance policies to have waiting periods ranging from 9 to 36 months. However, certain insurers may offer plans with reduced or no waiting periods as part of corporate or group schemes. Individual policies usually have waiting periods. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of the policy carefully before purchasing.

Which insurance does not have a waiting period?

Some insurance policies, such as travel insurance or short-term health insurance plans, may not have waiting periods for certain benefits. However, it's important to note that most comprehensive health insurance policies, including maternity insurance plans, typically have waiting periods for specific benefits.

How to reduce waiting period in health insurance?

To reduce waiting periods in health insurance, consider policies with shorter waiting periods, opt for add-on riders, undergo medical screenings, or choose maternity insurance plans with no waiting period.

What is the waiting period for IRDA health insurance?

The waiting period for health insurance regulated by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) typically ranges from 30 days for general illnesses to 2-4 years for specific pre-existing conditions or maternity benefits, depending on the policy.

Which policy has no waiting period?

Policies like certain health insurance plans, travel insurance, and some critical illness covers may offer immediate coverage with no waiting period. Specific maternity insurance plans with no waiting period also provide instant benefits for expectant mothers.

What is the waiting period in maternity insurance?

The waiting period in maternity insurance is the time before coverage for maternity expenses begins, typically ranging from 9 months to 6 years. During this period, policyholders cannot claim maternity-related benefits.

What does the waiting period for pregnancy cover?

The waiting period for pregnancy applies to maternity-related expenses, including prenatal check-ups, hospitalisation, delivery costs, and postnatal care. Coverage begins only after completing the specified waiting period set by the insurer.

Do maternity insurance plans come with no waiting period?

Most maternity insurance plans have a waiting period, typically ranging from nine months to six years. However, some group health insurance policies or specialised maternity plans offer no waiting period, providing immediate coverage for maternity expenses.

Show More Show Less

Related videos

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

GET THE APP

Disclaimer

*T&C Apply - Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, New India Assurance Limited, Chola MS General Insurance Company Limited, Zurich Kotak General Insurance Company Limited, Star Health & Allied Insurance Company Limited, Care Health Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited, Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited and Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limited under the IRDAI composite registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure & policy wordings carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services. Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. Visitors are hereby informed that their information submitted on the website may also be shared with insurers. BFL is also distributor of other third-party products from Assistance service providers such as CPP Assistance Services Private Limited, Bajaj Finserv Health Limited. etc. All product information such as premium, benefits, exclusions, value added services etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective Insurance company or the respective Assistance provider company.

Note - While we have made all the efforts and taken utmost care in gathering precise information about the products, features, benefits etc. However, BFL cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damage/loss. We request our customers to conduct their research about these products and refer to the respective products sales brochure and policy/membership wordings before concluding sales.