How your extras can help during pregnancy

It’s no secret that pregnancy can put a lot of extra strain on your body – growing a baby is no easy task. It can also be a confusing time. You want to stay as healthy as you can, but there are so many dos and don’ts it can be overwhelming.

The good news is, if you have extras cover, you may be able to use your cover to help pay towards some health services and support to help you through. Read on to find out how.

 

Take on aches and pains with the help of a physio

During pregnancy, you may experience lower back and pelvic pain because of the extra strain put on your back as your baby grows, or your ligaments loosening to prepare for childbirth. But it’s not something you necessarily have to grin and bear. Your extras cover may help pay towards a session with a physio, who may be able to help relieve the pain, build your muscle strength and flexibility and keep any problems at bay. Look out for a physio that specialises in women’s health. And remember that waiting periods and annual limits apply.

Prepare your pelvic floor

The muscles that keep your bladder closed, commonly known as your pelvic floor muscles, come under a lot of strain during pregnancy and childbirth. The good news is, you can strengthen them with exercise, and if you put the hard yards in early, you’ll thank yourself later. Your extras may help pay towards appointments with a pelvic floor physiotherapist, who can help you with exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles for when you most need them.  Remember that waiting periods and annual limits apply.

Want some extra dietary advice?

Every mum-to-be wants to fuel their baby’s growth with the right food and nutrients. If you’re looking for some personalised, one-on-one advice in addition to what your GP or obstetrician has provided, a dietitian may be able to help. And your extras may be able to help with the cost, provided you’ve served your waiting periods and haven’t used up your annual limits.

Healthy mums need healthy gums

Pregnancy brings about a lot of changes, but one that you might not know about is your dental health. Hormonal changes can make you more prone to gum disease. Seeing your dentist regularly can help to catch any problems early before they start causing more serious issues. And remember, with Medibank extras cover you can get 100% back on up to two dental check-ups at a Members’ Choice Advantage dentist every calendar year*. A 2 month waiting period applies.

Manage your stress

There is a lot to process when you’re having a baby – whether it’s your first or your third. Feeling stressed, overly worried or emotional is totally normal. If you feel sad or worried for two weeks or longer, it may be time to ask your GP for a referral for professional help. Depending on your extras cover, you may be able to claim towards sessions with a psychologist (up to annual limits).

Explore discounted fitness options

Exercise during pregnancy has a wide range of benefits, from helping to reduce pregnancy complications, to improving your mental health and energy levels. And Medibank members can take advantage of a whole range of discounts to keep them moving.

If the gym is your thing, find out how you can save up to 25% off casual gym visits with Medibank’s gym better and 15% on your Goodlife Health Clubs’ Active Plus membership.

Keep yourself motivated and record your gains with the latest in fitness technology and sports products. Medibank members can get discounts on products such as TomTom sports products – find out more about the offers here.

And remember, before you start making the most of all your perks, check with your doctor about what kind of exercise is safe for you.

Health and wellness advice and inspiration

If expert exercise advice is what you’re after – sign up for Live Better’s weekly pregnancy email. You’ll receive practical pregnancy information, based on your stage of pregnancy.  Or explore Live Better Families for everything from exercise tips, to advice for single dads.

Don’t forget to choose Members Choice

If you are using your extras for physio or dental, don’t forget to choose a Members’ Choice provider so you can be assured of getting a fixed percentage back of charge. This could be 55%, 70%, 85% or 100% depending on your cover^{^}. You can find your nearest Members’ Choice provider here.

 

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