The most common reason women tell us they’re considering adoption is finances. It’s no secret—raising a child is expensive, but so is pregnancy itself. Prenatal vitamins, doctor visits, ultrasounds, lab work… and then there’s the cost of labor and delivery.
In Texas, the average cost of childbirth without insurance is around $27,000 for a vaginal delivery and over $35,000 for a C-section. These numbers can be overwhelming – especially when you weren’t planning for this pregnancy.
The high cost of prenatal health care should not be a reason alone for you to choose adoption—and in Texas, it doesn’t have to be. If you’re pregnant and uninsured, Texas Pregnancy Medicaid may be able to help.
Who Is Eligible for Pregnancy Medicaid in Texas?
To qualify for Texas Pregnancy Medicaid, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Texas resident
- Be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
- Have a monthly income at or below program limits for your household size
- Be currently pregnant
- Have no other health insurance coverage
Note: You can check the most recent income guidelines on the Your Texas Benefits website or speak with a caseworker.
What Does Pregnancy Medicaid Cover?
Texas Pregnancy Medicaid covers a wide range of services to support both your health and your baby’s development, including:
- Prenatal doctor visits
- Lab tests and ultrasounds
- Prescription drugs and prenatal vitamins
- Labor and delivery
- X-rays and diagnostic imaging
- Hospital care and services
- Postpartum checkups
- Pediatric care for your newborn after birth
New in 2024: Texas has extended Pregnancy Medicaid coverage to include 12 months of postpartum care. This allows you more time to recover physically and emotionally, and gives healthcare providers the chance to monitor any complications, such as postpartum depression or high blood pressure.
How to Apply for Texas Pregnancy Medicaid
Applying for benefits is easier than you might think—and you don’t have to do it alone.
Online
Visit the Your Texas Benefits website to apply from any device.
In Person
You can also apply at a local Health & Human Services office. Find a location near you.
Required Documents
Be prepared to submit the following within 30 days of your initial application:
- Last three pay stubs (proof of income)
- Proof of pregnancy signed by a medical provider
- Proof of identity (driver’s license, ID card, etc.)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Proof of Texas residency (recent utility bill, lease, or mail addressed to you)
Many clinics, hospitals, and adoption agencies — including Adoption Advocates — can help you gather and submit the necessary paperwork. You’re not alone in this.
What If I Don’t Qualify for Pregnancy Medicaid?
If you’re undocumented or don’t meet the requirements for full Pregnancy Medicaid, you still have options.
CHIP Perinatal offers essential prenatal care for those who do not qualify for Medicaid, including:
- Up to 20 prenatal visits
- Prenatal vitamins
- Two postpartum visits within 60 days of giving birth
For labor and delivery, Emergency Medicaid typically covers the hospital costs.
You Deserve Care—No Matter What
Being pregnant should never mean choosing between your health and your finances. Whether you’re exploring adoption or simply trying to figure out parenting, you have the right to quality medical care and support.
