Having a baby in the US

Dear Friends,


Some of you have your babies born in the US. I request you to please list down all the costs that you incurred for reference of those who may plan to have a baby in the near future. e.g.

(1) Prenatal office visits, medicines, vaccinations for you (if any), parenting / exercise classes you attended, hospital childbirth (normal/ epidural/ C-section), any official formalities, etc.

(2) For the baby - initially till say the baby is a year old - medicines, vaccines, readymade feeds, clothes, diapers, toiletries, toys, stroller, car seat, etc.

(3) Any contingency expenses that one has to save for.

Most importantly, I am interested in knowing how much the insurance company pays and how much does one pay from one's pocket? Which insurance is the best for someone of a child bearing age?




P.S. I don't want to sound like a person who is putting a price on such a noble aspect of life as having kids. It's just to have an idea and plan accordingly. I hope my sincere intentions are not mistaken here.

P.P.S. I had posted this thread in "labor & delivery" section but then realized that this would be a more apt place. Sorry for the repetition.