Canadian Pregnancy Expenses, 2023, Insured and Uninsured

There are almost 400,000 births in Canada annually, and you're about to be one of the lucky mothers to welcome one of these new little ones into the world. However, this does not come free of charge.

How much does it cost to have a baby in Canada? How does the cost of giving birth compare between Canada and the United States? What should you include in your baby registry? Answers can be found in this article. Read on  

What is the Out-of-Pocket Cost of Having a Baby in Canada, Both With and Without Insurance?  

Healthcare in Canada is not free for visitors and foreign residents. Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system (the Medicare system), but only citizens, permanent residents, and international students are eligible for coverage.  

Non-citizens and tourists, on the other hand, are responsible for the full cost of giving birth if they do not have international health insurance, while citizens, permanent residents, and international students pay only a few hundred dollars or nothing at all.

The costs associated with giving birth in Canada are compared in the table below, both for those without insurance and for those with either international insurance or coverage through the Canadian healthcare system.

Health Care in Canada Canadian Dollar Equivalent of the Average Out-of-Pocket Cost of Giving Birth Canadian Dollar Equivalent of the Average Cost of Giving Birth Abroad Prenatal Care (on a per-visit basis) $100 – $150 $0 Prenatal sonography $300 – $500 $0 – $300 Hospital-assisted vaginal birth $5,000 – ,000 $0 – $1,000 In-Hospital Cesarean Section (CS) $10,000 – $12,000 $0 – $1,000 Midwife-attended home birth $2,500 0 – $2,500

Packages of prenatal care are offered by agents in British Columbia (BC), where birth tourism is most common. Midwife care, postpartum housing for four months (three months + one month), and food are all provided.  

These services typically cost around $25,000 CAD (roughly $18,000 USD) on average. When you add in lodging, transportation, and meals, however, the total cost will be considerably higher. The costs could be lower in some other states.

How Much Does In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Cost in Canada?

Since the birth of the first IVF baby in 1978, IVF and fertility treatments have advanced medically.  

Knowing the cost of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in Canada is important if you are not a Canadian resident but are instead a visitor or tourist interested in conceiving a child in Canada. You can get your IVF treatment at a specialized private clinic. However, as we mentioned before, unless you have international health insurance, you will probably have to pay for the entire thing out of your own pocket.  

The average cost of IVF in Canada is broken down in the table below. Remember that because IVF is an elective treatment, it may not be less expensive than other options.

Canada's In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Options The typical Canadian dollar amount Actual cost of in vitro fertilization ,600 – $25,000 Pregnancy aid medication $2,500 – ,000 Embryos and eggs from a donor Canadian law prohibits this. ICSI refers to intracytoplasmic sperm injection. $200 – $1,700 Reimplantation of a frozen embryo. $100 – $1,700 Number of embryos frozen each year $150 – $300

More Information on In Vitro Fertilization in Canada:

How Much It Will Set You Back to Have a Baby in Canada vs. the USA

Across the United States, local factors affect the total cost of raising a child. The cost to ship to New York and Los Angeles is over $20,000 USD, to Miami it's between ,000 and $10,000 USD, and to Salt Lake City it's between $5,000 and ,000 USD.  

When airfare, lodging, and food are factored in, the total cost skyrockets.  

Due to Canada's low prices and high standard of care, it has become a popular destination for international birth tourists.

Where to Have a Baby: Canada or the United States?

Canada has one of the world's best healthcare systems, and its healthcare service can hold its own against the United States' healthcare system. Canada has a higher standard of living than the United States in many ways. Therefore, it's a good idea to obtain Canadian citizenship.  

American birth tourism is big business, with lots of companies selling birthing packages. But birth tourism is also at an all-time high in Canada.

What to Expect When Expecting a Baby in Canada and What It Might Cost

Your baby will require a long list of items, but you can keep costs down by prioritizing the necessities and planning ahead for regular purchases like diapers and wipes. There will be plenty of wiggle room for unexpected costs.  

Make sure you have everything you need for your newborn by doing thorough research on the items on your list. We've made it easier by compiling a comprehensive list of everything from diapers to car seats to the cost of having a child in Canada. Below, we'll discuss them.  

A Furniture for Nurseries

The first thing on your to-do list will be designing the nursery. The essentials are as follows:

#1 Cot or Bassinet for Infants

Prices range from about to $2,500. The Dream On Me Aden Convertible Crib is our top pick. Priced at only $119 It's a best seller because of its low price (only .50) and amazing features. Some of these features are described in more detail below.  

Our Favorite Parts

• The New Zealand pinewood it's crafted from makes it both sturdy and fashionable.
• The crib is a sturdy and portable option.
• It's adaptable thanks to its 4-in-1 conversion capability. It has three handy mattress heights, so you can use it as a daybed, a twin bed, or anything in between.  
• The crib has a low learning curve for assembly.
• This crib can be transformed into a toddler bed as your child develops.   
• The JPMA has certified its safety. As a result, it satisfies all applicable CPSC and ASTM safety regulations.
• It takes up little room and is very compact.
• It has a roomy interior.

A Question of Improvement

• A few reviewers have mentioned how flimsy the paint or lacquer coating is.

#2 Baby Crib Mattress.

Prices can be anywhere from $30 to $300. The Dream On Me, Holly 3" Fiber Portable Crib Mattress is the perfect height for your Aden baby crib. It's only $31, and it's the ideal size for the Aden Crib (which we reviewed above).

Why We Enjoy It

• This sheet is a perfect fit for the Aden Crib.
• It's constructed from high-grade elements.
• Mild soap and warm water will do the trick for cleaning it.
• It's waterproof, antimicrobial, and hypoallergenic.
• This substance is non-toxic and lead-free.
• Reasonably priced

Where Can We Go From Here

• The plastic covering that can be wiped clean is not very sturdy.

#3 Dressing table for infants

From up to $500+, prices can be found. A changing table is up next. We recommend the Delta Infant Changing Table because it provides a secure, comfortable surface for your baby while you change her diaper.  

Below, we detail some of the many benefits you'll receive for only .

Why We Enjoy It

• The table's solid wood construction guarantees its durability.
• Assembling it is a breeze.
• To put it simply, it can withstand rain.
• The changing table has two open shelves that are permanently installed.
• The top of the table is surrounded by four safety rails.
• It has been tested for lead and other toxic elements and has a non-toxic coating.
• There's a ton of room for stuff under the table.

What Can Be Improved Upon

• Minor manufacturer errors have been reported by a few users.

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#4 Diaper Changer

The price range is $20-$40. As an added bonus, a changing pad makes diaper changes a breeze. Everything from diapers and wipes to lotions and potions can be kept in one convenient location. We think you should spend $20 on the Summer Contoured Changing Pad.

Our Favorite Parts

• It has a sturdy quilted vinyl construction.
• Waterproof and easily cleaned with a damp cloth, the material is convenient.
• A safety belt with a quick-release buckle and a tether strap are included.

Where Can We Go From Here

• While the plastic is watertight, some users have found that the perforations in the quilted cover let water in.

#5 Rocking Chair or Baby Seat Used for Breastfeeding

Prices start at $40 and go up from there. Your baby will be able to sit up and be fed without you constantly holding them if you have a good baby rocker. The Fisher-Price Sit-Me-Up Floor Seat (40 dollars) is our top pick.

Our Favorite Parts

• The baby will be comfortable on the seat pad because it is soft.
• It has two toys that can be joined together for baby to play with.
• It collapses to save space when not in use, and its lightweight design makes it convenient to bring on the go.
• It helps the infant maintain an upright posture.

Where Can We Go From Here

• As your baby nears or exceeds 17-20 pounds, you may have trouble removing them from their car seat.

B Feeding:

Breastfeeding

Despite the low cost of breastfeeding, You still have some things to purchase:

#1 Baby Pillow

$35 to When holding or feeding your baby, you will need a nursing pillow for comfort and support. The baby is supported at an optimal height, and you are protected from muscle strain. There are good reasons why you should buy a My Brest Friend nursing pillow. The price of the pillow is $35.

Why We Enjoy It

• It's flat and firm, so your baby won't be able to shift positions while you nurse.
• The clasp ensures that it will remain fastened while you walk.
• The pillow includes a convenient pouch for storing your maternity necessities.
• Because of its wraparound shape, it keeps you in a secure, comfortable position.
• It has its own cover.
• The lumbar and back will appreciate the cushioning on the back.
• The pillow's patterns are adorable.

A Question of Improvement

#2 Medical Shields

Among $10 and $50+ A nursing cover is useful because some infants prefer to be breastfed in a more private setting, and because you may find that you need some privacy from time to time.  

This is a great example of the Nursing Cover's adaptability. It's multifunctional, serving as a nursing cover, a scarf, a light blanket, and a stroller cover, among other things. It's only $10, but you get all these extras.

Our Favorite Parts

• This cover serves many purposes. The multifunctional design allows you to use it in a variety of ways, including as a nursing cover, a light blanket, a stroller cover, an infinity scarf, and a cover for your baby's car seat or high chair.  
• Extremely breathable and comfortable fabric.
• It's a breeze to put on. It takes less than a minute to put on.
• Perfect for any baby, regardless of gender!

Where Can We Go From Here

• Possible heat trapping due to polyester fabric.  

#3 Mastectomy Pump

Manual pumps can be purchased for as little as $13, while electric ones can cost more than $500. Using a breast pump, you can increase your milk supply well in advance of when your baby will actually need more milk. The Haakaa Manual Breast Pump comes highly recommended. At $13, this hand pump is not cheap.

Our Favorite Parts

• It's simple to operate. Squeeze, fasten to the chest, and done.  
• It's simple to disinfect.
• There is no pumping or assembly required for this breast pump.
• It's easy to carry, compact, and compatible with any diaper bag.
• It's made for any and all breast sizes.
• The silicone used in this breast pump is of the highest quality and is free of harmful substances like lead, BPA, PVC, and phthalates.

What Can Be Improved Upon

• First-timers may feel some pain.

We suggest this Hands-Free Pumping Bra if you prefer an electric pump. The material is soft, and it can accommodate various pumps, bottle sizes, and protective gear without sacrificing convenience or safety.

#4 Babies' Bottles

Safe and high-quality bottles that are made to feel like breast milk are essential when bottle-feeding your baby. This $22 Comotomo baby bottle does exactly that.

Our Favorite Parts

• To combat bottle rejection and nipple confusion, it's made to feel and look a lot like actual breastfeeding.
• You don't even need a brush to clean it.
• The silicone used to make the bottle is safe for consumption.
• It has two vents specifically designed to reduce colic, as the name suggests.

Where Can We Go From Here

• Bottle warmers have a very long warm-up time for milk bottles.

Baby Formula

Babies should continue to drink infant formula until they are a year old. The cost of formula feeding can add up quickly. Formula feeding is estimated to cost between $1,200 and $3,800 CAD annually, according to recent studies. There will be a significant demand for bottles throughout the procedure.  

When Starting a Solid Food Diet

These items are necessary for when your baby is able to sit up on his or her own and you begin feeding him or her solid foods.

#1 Highchair

Priced between and $500+ Baby feeding time calls for special high chairs. Babies can be held securely while eating. Consider the Graco Slim Snacker High Chair as an example of a convenient and secure option. Costing

Why We Enjoy It

• There are three different reclining positions on the chair for convenient feeding.
• To fold it, you need only
• You won't have any trouble stowing it away because of how small it is.
• Cleaning the seat pad is a breeze.
• It comes with a large mesh basket for storing all of your baby's necessities.
• A full-sized tray with a drink holder is included.
• The chair is comfortable and easy to transport.

A Question of Improvement

• The straps aren't always easy to take off for washing.

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#2 Baby Food

One box will set you back between $5 and $15, and it should last you for about a week. Cereal is often given as a baby's first solid food. Baby cereal is a great foundational food that can aid in the early identification of food allergies and the acquisition of healthy eating habits. The best baby cereals have calcium for strong teeth and bones, as well as vitamins C, E, zinc, and the B vitamins for normal growth and development.  

This and more can be found in Gerber's single-grain oat cereal for infants. Priced at $12 48  

C Packing List

#1 Car Seat

If you buy a convertible car seat, you can use it from the time your child is 5-40 pounds in the rear-facing harness position to the time they are 65 pounds and moving into the forward-facing toddler seat. An average price for such a car seat is between $100 and $500.  

The Graco SlimFit 3 in 1 Car Seat, which is suitable and costs $180, fits the bill.

This Is Why We Enjoy It

• It can be used as a rear-facing infant seat (5-40 pounds), a forward-facing toddler seat (22-65 pounds), or a high-back booster seat (40-100 pounds), making it a very versatile piece of equipment.
• Two cup holders are built right into the slim design.
• The chair has passed the Graco ProtectPlus Engineered crash tests, guaranteeing the safety of your child in the event of a side, frontal, rear, or rollover collision.
• Reclines to one of four positions
• There's a button latch on the seat that'll keep you in there safely.

Where Can We Go From Here

• The shoulder straps of the harness cannot be detached for washing.

#2 A Single-Seater Stroller of Full Size

One more thing on your list should be a baby stroller. It's great for those times when you want to get out with your baby but don't want to overexert yourself or your child. Standard baby strollers can cost anywhere from $250 to $3,000. This Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller, our top pick, can be yours for only $110.  

Our Favorite Parts

• The big tires on the bicycle are great for traversing any terrain.
• The front swivel wheel locks for stability, making it ideal for jogging.
• An adjustable headrest and safety harness (5 points) are included.
• The chair has a tray for the child, a tray for the adult, and two cup holders.
• It can be folded up and stored away easily.

A Question of Improvement

• It folds in half, but only after you use both hands to activate the mechanism.

Preventative Medicine for Infants

#1 Diapers  

Over 2,700 diapers are used by the typical child in the first twelve years of life. Size 0 (for babies weighing between 0 and 10 pounds) disposable Pampers are $34. 28 people, and that's a month's worth It cost $48 for a size 1 (8-14 pound) Size 2 costs $24.94 and is a 28.

Cloth diapers are another option, and they cost about $20 for one diaper. For $24, you can buy a pack of Mama Koala One Size Reusable Cloth Diapers. Highly absorbent, it also adapts to the size of your child as they develop. Diaper rashes are uncomfortable for both you and your baby, but a good, hypoallergenic diaper rash cream can be a lifesaver. It's about .

#2 Cloth Diapers

This is another significant source of waste. Baby diaper wipes made with water-based material cost $15 for a pack of Pampers Sensitive.  

Why We Enjoy It

• Alcohol, parabens, phenoxyethanol, perfume, and dyes are not included, making it a safe option.
• Plus, it's approved by dermatologists!  
• The pH-neutral formula is soothing to delicate skin.
• It's hypoallergenic.

What Can Be Improved Upon

• Sometimes it's tough to get the packaging open.

#3 Shower ($10 to $20)

Invest in a tub suitable for infants and toddlers. It adapts to your child's size, so you can save as they develop. For twenty dollars, you can buy our recommended model, the First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe Newborn-to-toddler Tub.

Our Favorite Parts

• There are three distinct ages that this tub can accommodate: newborn, infant, and toddler.
• The baby can be held securely and comfortably in the included sling while taking a bath.
• The mesh sling can be cleaned and dried in the washing machine.
• There's a shelf built into the bottom of the tub for easy access to shampoo, soap, and other toiletries.
• The tub has a simple draining system.

Where Can We Go From Here

• The time it takes for the padded sling to dry increases.

D Clothing

Naturally, this is the case. Monthly baby clothing costs average (or Canadian).