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Parenthood can be an incredible journey, full of love, joy, and happy memories. For anyone who is facing an unplanned pregnancy, however, and is unable to raise a child, it can be an incredibly hard road. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy in Louisiana, you may be considering your options. If parenthood is on your mind, you may be asking yourself: ‘How much does a baby cost in Louisiana?’
It is no secret that parenting is one of the most expensive life experiences. It costs an average of $322,427 to raise a child from birth to age 18, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This hefty fee is largely due to the skyrocketing costs of childcare and food, but labor and delivery are more expensive than ever, as well.
As you weigh your options, it can be helpful to know what to expect – particularly when it comes to the cost to have a baby in Louisiana. As you may know, the costs of raising a child vary based on region and state. As you ask yourself ,”How much does a baby cost in Louisiana?” continue reading. In this short guide, we will share a breakdown of the costs you can expect in Louisiana. From labor and delivery to childcare – and everything in between – we will empower you with the information you need before making a thoughtful decision. We will also share another option you may want to consider.
4 Factors Influencing the Cost of Having a Baby in Louisiana
Location of Birth
Even within each state, birth costs vary throughout the state of Louisiana. If you simply want to know “How much does having a baby cost in Louisiana?” The answer is – on average – $11,346. That may seem high, but Louisiana has the fourth-lowest median cost for in-network vaginal deliveries in the country.
Type of Delivery
The cost of childbirth in Louisiana also depends on the type of delivery you experience. A vaginal delivery, without any complications or epidural, costs significantly less than a cesarian-section delivery. The birth setting will also impact the cost of birth, such as hospital, birth center, or home birth.
Insurance Coverage
Medical insurance is a crucial factor that impacts the cost of having a baby in Louisiana. Without insurance, childbirth costs at least $10,000 more in the state.
Prenatal and Postpartum Care
Another key factor expectant/birth mothers should consider is medical care. Routine check-ups and tests are crucial for the health of you and your baby. While health insurance covers most of these visits, there are also usually copays with each visit and test. Patients considered “high risk” may require more frequent visits and testing. This can add to the baby cost in Louisiana.
Additional Costs to Consider
Childcare
Childcare is one of the most financially straining factors for parents today. In Louisiana, the average cost of infant care is $8,873 per year. For a four-year-old, the average annual cost is $8,153.
Maternity Clothing and Accessories
With an unexpected pregnancy comes unexpected costs. This includes maternity clothes and other items that may help throughout a pregnancy. While something as simple as clothing may not seem like a big financial burden, these costs can easily add up to hundreds of dollars. Aside from the belly-friendly tops and stretchy bottoms, many expectant mothers find themselves needing other items like body pillows for comfortable sleep. These surprise costs can cause financial stress for anyone who has not planned for the circumstances.
Baby Essentials
A newborn baby has needs that can be quite significant. New parenthood means new items to help an infant thrive. At the bare minimum, new parents must be prepared with the following:
- Formula & bottles (if formula-feeding)
- Diapers & wipes
- Clothing
- Crib or bassinet
- Car seat
Disposable diapers can be the most challenging of these must-have items. Diapering an infant today costs about $1,000 per year.
Aside from these basics, there are many more items that can be helpful for new parents caring for a baby, such as:
- Baby carrier or stroller
- Baby bath supplies
- Burp cloths
- Infant-friendly first aid kit
- Swaddling blankets
These are just a few examples of baby items that can help in the first years of childhood.
Adoption is an Option
In the right circumstances, parenthood can be a wonderful chapter of life. For many expectant parents, however, the reality is that the cost to have a baby in Louisiana is simply too much. There is another option to consider: Adoption.
While it may not be the right choice for everyone, adoption is a positive choice for anyone who is not ready – or able – to raise a child. Thanks to open adoption in Louisiana, it does not mean “goodbye forever.” It is, in fact, the start of an incredible journey. You can choose your child’s adoptive family, custom-design an adoption plan that meets your needs, and spend years of your child’s upbringing building meaningful relationships with everyone in the adoptive family.
Adoptions With Love has been supporting Louisiana expectant/birth mothers since 1986. As a private, fully licensed adoption agency, we can support your needs throughout the adoption process. Our team of compassionate counselors work with expectant/birth mothers throughout the first year of pregnancy and up to a year following the adoption – free of charge. There are never any fees related to the adoption for expectant/birth mothers in Louisiana. You can, in fact, receive financial assistance to help alleviate some of the stress that comes with an unexpected pregnancy.
With a Louisiana adoption agency working with you, you are never alone in the adoption process. With a reputable, trustworthy Louisiana adoption agency by your side, you can rest assured that your adoption will be handled with care, and your needs will be prioritized.
Learn More About Adoption in Louisiana
As you consider your options, you can learn even more about the adoption process in Louisiana today. Call Adoptions With Love 24/7 at 800-722-7731 or contact us online. We can help you lovingly make an adoption plan for your baby and support you every step of the way.