Welcome!

We understand that pregnancy can bring a mix of emotions. From the moment you know you’re pregnant to the many healthcare visits and tests, there’s a lot to take in. Our pregnancy guide is here to help you understand your journey and our coverage. We want you to feel supported and informed so you can focus on caring for yourself and the baby.

Where are you in the pregnancy journey?

Your benefit details

If you are a CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) member, you can find your benefit details in My Account. After you log in or register, click on Benefit Details listed under Coverage in the top toolbar. Then select Maternity/OB-GYN/Fertility and click the link of the service you are interested in for details about what your plan covers. If you have questions, please contact the Member Services number on the back of your Member ID.

Log In or Register

The pregnancy journey

Your pregnancy journey is unique, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Choosing the right health plan

When planning to have a baby, choosing a health plan that meets your needs is important.

Learn more

Healthy Pregnancy Resource Guide

Use this Healthy Pregnancy Resource Guide to help you navigate this challenging, but rewarding time.

View the Guide

Access to Medicaid coverage

Thanks to the Healthy Babies Equity Act, effective July 1, 2023, pregnant individuals in Maryland, regardless of immigration status, have access to Medicaid coverage. The benefit provides coverage during pregnancy and four months after birth. Medicaid will pay for many different services, not just those related to pregnancy.

If you already have a Maryland Medicaid plan through CareFirst, visit the CareFirst Community Health Plan Maryland website for information about your benefits.

Enroll Now

Trying to conceive

Recommended LC Steps:
  • Find the right provider for your pregnancy journey.
  • Visit your provider to discuss your plans.
  • Ensure your medications and supplements are safe for pregnancy.
  • Discuss any potential risks (e.g., BMI, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, etc.) and develop a plan to address them.
  • Consider genetic counseling if there’s a risk of inherited disorders.

Difficulty conceiving and infertility?

Learn about common pregnancy challenges.

Common family planning questions for your provider.

See common questions to ask your provider when trying to conceive.

Assistance with substance use or mental health

CareFirst’s Behavioral Health team is here to help. For assistance, call our behavioral health support line at 800-245-7013. Our licensed Care Managers can help connect you with the best care for your individual situation. We’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

First Trimester

Weeks 1–12

What to expect:

  • Early symptoms: Nausea, fatigue, frequent urination
  • Fetal development: Major organs start forming

Recommended Steps:

  • Confirm your pregnancy with a physical exam and lab work.
  • Schedule your first prenatal visit with an OB/GYN or midwife before week 12 of pregnancy.
  • Between 11–14 weeks, discuss an ultrasound and possibly a cell-free DNA test for certain chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome.
  • Talk to your employer about maternity leave, short-term disability (STD) and the Family Leave and Medical Act (FMLA).

Common concern: Morning sickness

Hang in there! By the time you hit the second trimester, your mornings should be much less nauseating and much more fabulous!

Common questions for your provider during your first trimester.

Read more

Second Trimester

Weeks 13–26

What to expect:

  • Body changes: Less nausea, more energy, noticeable baby bump
  • Fetal development: The baby's movements can be felt, organs continue to develop

Recommended Steps:

  • Between 15–20 weeks, discuss a maternal serum screen for genetic disorders and neural tube defects.
  • Between 18–20 weeks, get an ultrasound to check the baby’s organ health.
  • In certain circumstances, you may be offered an amniocentesis or other tests based on your age and other conditions
  • Start looking for a pediatrician, schedule interviews and ensure that the pediatrician will be available for your baby's first check-up after birth.

Common concern: Nutrition during pregnancy

Your body is doing something incredible—nourishing both you and your baby. Eating well during pregnancy supports your health and your baby’s development. Most people gain weight during pregnancy, and how much is considered healthy can vary. For guidance on healthy eating and weight gain, you can learn more here.

Common questions for your provider during your second trimester.

Read more

Third Trimester

Weeks 27–40

What to expect:

  • Body changes: Backaches, swelling, Braxton Hicks contractions
  • Fetal development: Baby gains weight, lungs mature, prepares for birth

Recommended Steps:

  • Register for prenatal classes to prepare for childbirth and get ready for your new role (and breastfeeding classes if you are planning to breastfeed).
  • Between 26–28 weeks, you should take a gestational diabetes test.
  • Around week 30, you should explore a breast pump if you think it might be needed. Talk to your insurance provider to get requirements and coverage options. If you are a CareFirst member, here are breast pump suppliers. You may need to enter your CareFirst Member ID information to see which options are covered under your benefits.
  • After 36 weeks, schedule weekly check-ups with your provider.
  • Between 36–37 weeks, expect a Group B Strep to test for bacteria that could affect your newborn.
  • Make sure you understand the process—from your employer or health insurance carrier—of adding the baby to your health plan policy.
  • Install an infant car seat in your car. Here are some tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
  • Plan your recovery time at least 30 days prior to your due date (e.g., requesting time off, arranging extra help for caregiving or other responsibilities, etc.).
  • Discuss birth plans, including any instructions on what to do when there are signs of labor, and anesthesia options with your provider.
  • If you pass your due date, discuss induction with your provider.
  • Pack a hospital bag with essentials like comfortable clothing, toiletries and items for the baby. Remember to bring a copy of your birth plan so you can have it on hand.

Common concern: Labor signs

Keep an eye out for regular contractions, your water breaking and a persistent backache—these are signs that the baby is on the way.

Common questions for your provider during your third trimester.

Read more

Labor & Delivery

What to expect:

  • Every birth is different, so the time frame is unique to each person and is dependent on many different factors.
  • Your cervix will gradually open to 10 centimeters to allow the baby to pass through.
  • You’ll feel a strong urge to push as the baby moves down the birth canal.
  • After the baby is born, you’ll deliver the placenta, which is usually quick and less intense.
  • Healthcare providers will monitor your and the baby’s health throughout the process.

Recommended Steps:

  • Check-in at hospital registration and provide identification and insurance information.
  • See a nurse. A nurse will take you to a triage room to be monitored. You'll be admitted to a labor and delivery room if you're in active labor.
  • Manage your pain. You can undergo an epidural, take medications or practice breathing techniques.

Common concern: How do I know when to go to the hospital?

You will experience contractions. Follow the 5-1-1 rule: If your contractions are 5 minutes apart, last 1 minute each and continue for at least 1 hour, it's time to go to the hospital.

If your water breaks before you’ve started having contractions, you should still head to the hospital. Keep in mind that not all people experience their sac breaking.

Common questions for your provider during labor and delivery.

Read more

Postpartum

What to expect:

  • You may experience bleeding, cramping and soreness as your body heals.
  • It’s normal to feel a range of emotions, from joy to anxiety. All people who have recently given birth are at risk for postpartum depression and anxiety.
    • Symptoms can be mistaken for the normal stresses and adjustments of being a new parent, so it is often undiagnosed.
    • It is important to seek help if you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Our behavioral health support line is available at 800-245-7013 if you’d like to speak to one of our licensed Care Managers.
    • You may also connect with a therapist or psychiatrist using  CloseKnit or visit our Behavioral Health tab on our Wellness Programs Overview page.
  • Expect disrupted sleep patterns as you adjust to the baby's schedule.

Recommended Steps:

  • Schedule a postpartum check-up with your doctor and a visit for the baby with the pediatrician within six weeks of giving birth.
  • Consider reaching out for support with household tasks and baby care. This could include family, friends, community resources, local support groups or professional services.
  • Update your health insurance plan. Once the baby is born, you must add them to your policy within a timeframe determined by your employer or health insurance carrier.
  • If you had a C-section, follow your doctor’s instructions for wound care.
  • Stay hydrated and eat well. It’s essential for recovery and breastfeeding.
  • Spend time bonding with your baby through skin-to-skin contact and gentle interactions.
  • If you’re breastfeeding and need support, connect with a lactation consultant. Lactation support is a covered benefit for CareFirst members—learn more about this benefit. You can also connect with a lactation consultant with CloseKnit.

Common postpartum questions for your provider.

Read more

Support and information

To make your pregnancy journey easier, you should ask your hospital or birthing center if they have any resources available to support you, such as educational materials, classes or car seat installation services.

You can search online for:

  • General pregnancy information and use a pregnancy tracker to follow your baby's growth
  • Prenatal classes to prepare for childbirth and general parenting information to get ready for your new role
  • Postpartum recovery tips and mental health support
  • Feeding advice on nursing, pumping and formula feeding
  • Ideas for infant schedules and routines and information about important milestones your baby will reach

A lot of helpful information exists online, but please remember the internet should not replace speaking to a physician for personalized medical advice.

CareFirst support for family planning, pregnancy and beyond

We understand that family planning and pregnancy are significant milestones in your life. CareFirst is committed to supporting you every step of the way with a range of benefits and resources designed to ensure your health and well-being. From comprehensive prenatal care to mental health services, CareFirst is here to provide the support you need for a healthy journey into parenthood and beyond.

Learn more