Report: Managing medication costs for moms during the postpartum period

Having a baby in the United States is expensive. The average cost of childbirth is more than $18,000, with a 2022 study noting that nearly $3,000 is not covered by insurance. In addition to the expense of childbirth, parents can also anticipate spending upward of $12,000 on child-related expenses during their baby’s first year of life. The stress of becoming a new parent can be overwhelming, especially for moms as they embark on parenthood and enter the fourth trimester of pregnancy or the postpartum period. 

During the postpartum period, it’s incredibly important for new moms to take care of themselves and regain their strength for their bodies to heal. This is especially critical for those who had complications during childbirth or are experiencing postpartum depression. Oftentimes, women are prescribed postpartum medications to help address issues that may arise during childbirth as well as medications to help speed the recovery process. Given the compounding costs of childbirth, child care, and aftercare, SingleCare reviewed common postpartum medications during the fourth trimester and how moms can save on their prescriptions during this crucial time. 

Postpartum Depression

According to the CDC, 1 in 8 women experience symptoms of depression after giving birth. Some women experience the “baby blues,” where those symptoms typically resolve within two weeks—but postpartum depression is when depression symptoms last months or years after giving birth and can impact a mother's ability to bond with and care for her baby. Symptoms of postpartum depression include sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, withdrawal from friends and family, loss of interest in activities, or interference with the ability to do daily life activities. 

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, speak with your healthcare provider immediately as they can help with treatment. SingleCare reviewed antidepressant medications commonly prescribed to new moms for postpartum depression and compared the average retail price to SingleCare’s price to see how much can be saved on medications.

*Price is the lowest SingleCare price compared to the average retail price (UNC) as of Mar. 28, 2023. Prices for the average retail price are sourced among CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Albertsons, and Kroger.

Preeclampsia and Hypertension

Occurring in 1 out of every 25 pregnancies in the U.S., preeclampsia is a serious complication where women who previously had normal blood pressure suddenly develop high blood pressure and protein in the urine or other health problems after 20 weeks. Symptoms of preeclampsia can include high blood pressure, severe headache or migraine, swelling of the face, limbs, hands, and feet, rapid weight gain, blurred vision, nausea, and decreased urination. While signs and symptoms of preeclampsia usually go away within six weeks after delivery, healthcare providers may prescribe antihypertensive medications to help stabilize blood pressure to help reduce any further complications from the condition. 

SingleCare reviewed commonly prescribed antihypertensive medications for new moms and compared the average retail price to SingleCare’s price to see how much can be saved on medications. 

*Prices are the lowest SingleCare price compared to the average retail price (UNC) as of Mar. 28, 2023. Prices for the average retail price are sourced among CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Albertsons, and Kroger.

Pain Management and Multivitamins 

Regardless of how a woman delivers, her body will need to recover and heal after giving birth. To help manage the pain after childbirth, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to relieve pain and assist with the postpartum recovery process. It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about care post-delivery and if you are experiencing any uncommon symptoms that require immediate attention. In addition to pain management, it is also important for women to receive proper vitamins and nutrients to help the body heal. 

SingleCare reviewed commonly prescribed vitamins and medications for new moms and compared the average retail price to SingleCare’s price to see how much can be saved on medications.

*Prices are the lowest SingleCare price compared to the average retail price (UNC) as of Mar. 28, 2023. Prices for the average retail price are sourced among CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Albertsons, and Kroger.

Postpartum care tips from a pharmacist

Having a baby is one of the most exciting times in the lives of parents, but it also comes with many life changes and challenges over the weeks following childbirth. To help support the postpartum journey, Jennifer Bourgeois, Pharm.D., Pharmacy and Health Expert for SingleCare, has compiled essential tips for recovery and ways to boost your health following childbirth.  

• Establish your support team. After birth, it’s important to create a team of people to help support you through the next six weeks. This may include a doula, nanny, spouse, family, or friends. Your support team can help with simple tasks such as child care, cooking, cleaning, and laundry. You may want to ask visitors to be up to date on vaccines, such as the flu vaccine or Tdap vaccine to further protect your infant from being exposed to illnesses. Don’t be shy in asking for help and setting boundaries: No matter what you may think, you are not expected to do it all. 

• Prioritize self-care and sleep. Pregnancy and postpartum are the greatest times of change in a mom’s brain and can take a heavy toll on the body. Taking care of yourself during this time is important for you and the baby. In order to be the best parent you can be, make time to consistently do something you enjoy and prioritize sleep. Sleep—ideally at least seven to eight hours a day—is imperative to allow your body to heal and recover. 

• Consume adequate nutrients and stay hydrated. During the postpartum period, it’s important to eat a healthy diet rich in nutrients, especially if you are breastfeeding since nursing requires a large amount of energy and burns extra calories. Your diet should have sufficient protein, healthy fats, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. It’s best to focus on whole foods versus processed foods. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water—ideally around 16 cups per day—as hydration is important for breast milk production. 

• Care for your mental health. Having the “baby blues” is common after giving birth. You may feel sad, moody, and indecisive. Take advantage of your support team as they can help you through these emotional times. If these feelings last longer than two weeks, you should consult your healthcare provider as you may have postpartum depression. Postpartum depression signs are more intense and may include panic attacks, severe anxiety, feeling hopeless and apathetic, or suicidal thoughts. Postpartum Support International is an excellent resource if you are struggling with mental health postpartum. Please ask for help and do not “push through” or feel guilty. Postpartum depression is a serious condition that needs medical attention.

• Set medication reminders. Life is chaotic during the postpartum time, so it’s helpful to set alarms on your phone to remind you to take your medication at the right time. Many women are discharged from the hospital with medications for pain such as ibuprofen, hydrocodone, and acetaminophen. When taking hydrocodone or other narcotic medications, make sure to add a stool softener to ensure you continue to have regular bowel movements. Also, don’t forget to add your vitamins to your medication regimen. Women often need continued iron and folic acid supplementation after childbirth. Consult your healthcare provider for your individualized recommendations.

Methodology: 

Prescription drug prices are the lowest SingleCare price compared to the average retail price (UNC) as of Mar. 28, 2023. Prices for the average retail price are sourced among CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Albertsons, and Kroger.