Expectant Mothers – What You Need To Know About Life Insurance

Expecting a child is one of the most exciting times in one’s life. You’re filled with hope for the future, daydreaming about what lies ahead for your family. With that little bundle of joy, however, comes an immense amount of responsibility. This little life will look to you for love and guidance; and every decision you make from this moment forward will be made with your child in mind. It’s only natural that pregnancy is the time many families start to consider their options regarding life insurance.

Life insurance provides your family financial security should you pass away unexpectedly. While this is something no one wants to think about, we owe it to our families to do what we can to secure their future, particularly when a child is on the way.

If you’re already pregnant, you’ve probably written off life insurance for now, assuming you’ll be denied coverage or, at the very least, be charged sky-high premiums. This isn’t always the case. Most insurers will insure a pregnant woman up to their third trimester. In fact, many insurance companies will issue a policy throughout the entire pregnancy, assuming the applicant fits the underwriting guidelines and there are no serious complications with the pregnancy.

When Pregnancy Complications Arise

If you’re pregnant, or considering bringing a child into the world, you’ve probably read about all the complications that could occur. Controlled gestational diabetes is a health-related condition that occurs only during pregnancy. Should you be diagnosed with this, don’t be discouraged. Many insurers will not only accept your application, they’ll issue your policy at Standard or Preferred premium rates (if underwriting hasn’t uncovered any other health concerns).

Conditions that often disqualify applicants include:

• High blood pressure or preeclampsia
• Difficulties with a previous pregnancy
• Previous c-section birth

If you fit into one or more of these categories, discuss your options with your life insurance agent – it might be best for you to wait and apply after your child is born.

Advice for Obtaining the Most Favorable Rates

• If you and your partner are discussing starting a family, consider applying for life insurance first. This will position you for the most favorable policy and rate.
• Weight and cholesterol are both considered during the underwriting process. These levels often fluctuate during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. If you’re already expecting, discuss your options with an insurance agent – the sooner the better. But don’t make any rash decisions; take the time to choose the policy that best fits your families growing needs. A few days isn’t going to make a huge difference, but choosing the wrong policy could.
• If applying pre-pregnancy is no longer an option, apply before you hit your third trimester.
• Some underwriters factor in postpartum depression issues when reviewing an application. If you’re experiencing postpartum symptoms, discuss this with your agent. They can help you shop around for the best policy at the best rate.

Congratulations, you’re about to embark on the most fulfilling experience of your life. This should be a time of joy and hope. We understand that life insurance can be intimidating, even under normal circumstances. The peace of mind of knowing your family is cared for financially should the unexpected occur will far outweigh any stresses you might endure during the consideration and application stages. The Vista Life team is here to make the process as painless as possible. So you can get back to what matters most – enjoying your new family.