Social media is making us adults afraid of adulting, especially when it comes to having kids. SKL
Yes, having children is expensive, but there are so many options and ways to make things work. I’m not saying we should be complacent or take things for granted, but this is something my husband and I have come to realize now that we’re expecting a baby at ages 30 and 33. (Sana inagahan pa namin haha)
Sometimes, social media makes us feel like we need to have everything figured out and be financially perfect before having kids. But the truth is, there’s no perfect time or perfect situation. We just have to be responsible, make wise decisions, and trust that we’ll figure things out along the way.
So, here’s a glimpse of our pregnancy journey. I’m currently in my 5th month of pregnancy, and these are some of our actual expenses and realizations so far. Sharing this in case it helps other couples who are planning to have a baby or are currently expecting. 🫶
1. Vitamins and supplements — ₱600–₱1,350/month
Our current vitamins cost us around ₱1,350 per month for 30 days. However, I recently discovered that some of the same brands are available at lower prices through trusted online pharmacies.
For example, our doctor’s calcium supplement costs ₱15 per tablet, or ₱450 for 30 days, while I found the same brand online for ₱160 per 100 tablets.
If we buy the other available supplements from more affordable sources, our estimated monthly vitamin expenses could be around ₱600.
Of course, always check the seller’s legitimacy, product authenticity, dosage, and expiration date. I also make sure to consult my OB before changing brands or where I purchase my supplements.
2. Prenatal checkups — ₱500 per visit
Our regular checkup costs ₱500 per visit, once a month so far. The rate may reach ₱1,000 or more with other OB-GYNs, depending on the clinic and services included.
Laboratory tests and ultrasounds may cost extra, so it’s important to budget for those separately. (Ultasound ₱600 pero may mga OB na may machine na sa clinic at doon na lang nila sinisilip. Nagbayad lang kami ng ₱600 for printed images and explanation for SSS requirement, my 1st Blood works cost us ₱2000 noong 2nd month, baka yung susunod sa 7th month na)
3. Anti-tetanus vaccination — ₱300 per dose
Our doctor’s rate is ₱300 per dose, while some other clinics we inquired about charge ₱1,000 or more.
Our current estimate is two doses throughout the pregnancy, depending on the recommended schedule and previous vaccination history. It’s always best to follow your OB’s advice regarding the number and timing of doses.
4. CS delivery package — around ₱40,000–₱45,000
We found a private hospital package here in Pampanga through our doctor, with an option to upgrade from a private room to a suite. The package is around ₱40,000–₱45,000, with PhilHealth coverage reflected in the arrangement.
We’re still making sure we understand exactly what’s included and what could be charged separately, such as additional hospital stays, laboratory tests, or complications. It’s always best to confirm the final out-of-pocket cost directly with the hospital. Always ask how much their package is para makalipat or hanap ng ibang options. In our case, okay yung rooms dito spacious compared sa AUFMC, Mother and Child, TMC kaya dito na namin pinili.
5. Diapers, wipes, and bath essentials — buy only what you need first
You don’t need to hoard everything before the baby arrives. Babies can be sensitive to certain products, and what works for one baby may not work for another.
It’s better to start with small quantities, see what suits your baby, and buy more once you’ve found the products that work. That way, you avoid wasting money on items your baby might not be able to use.
6. Baby clothes — start with the essentials
There are so many affordable options in online shops! You don’t need to buy dozens of outfits right away because babies grow so quickly.
Start with the basics, consider the weather, and buy additional clothes as needed. Practicality over quantity!
Our biggest realization so far?
Preparing for a baby doesn’t always mean buying the most expensive products or having everything ready all at once. Sometimes, it means knowing where to save, comparing prices, asking questions, and prioritizing what truly matters.
We still believe in financial preparedness and responsible parenting. We’re not saying raising a child is cheap or that everyone has the same circumstances. Every pregnancy, family, and financial situation is different. But I hope we can also remind each other that being a good parent isn’t about having the most expensive baby essentials or being financially perfect before your child arrives. It’s about being willing to learn, plan responsibly, and provide the best you can with what you have.
Disclaimer: These are our current expenses and the prices we’ve personally encountered in Pampanga, not fixed rates or guaranteed costs for everyone. Please confirm medical recommendations, package inclusions, and current prices with your healthcare provider and hospital.
EDIT: Sa hindi po nakagets ng context, pertaining po ako sa mga ibang nagcocontent na over exaggerated when it comes to pregnancy. Yes, mahal sya kapag sa St. Lukes ka nanganak or something pero yung ibang post kase na nakikita ko before is like putting fear to most couples na gustong magkaanak dahil sa gastos.
Iba naman rin po yung usapan kapag ayaw mag anak due to other responsibilities.