The Soaring Costs of American Childbirth

According to the International Federation of Health Plans, the United States is the world’s most expensive country for childbirth with an average conventional delivery costing $9,775. A caesarean costs about $15,041 on average.

In 2011, 62 percent of American women covered by private insurance polices not obtained through an employer did not have maternity coverage. Most developed countries offer free or cheap maternity care but the United States remains one of the few places where the childbirth process is billed per item.

Australia comes second where the average childbirth comes in at $6,846. In France, the Netherlands and Switzerland, the process is very well regulated and the financial burden is largely lifted from the mothers involved. In these countries, the price averages out at $4,000.

It is important to note that the figures depicted in the graphic are the amounts agreed on by the insurance companies or other paying parties involved, and are lower than the actual billed charges. They take into account all routine forms of Obstetric care.