Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has urged expecting mothers to consult their healthcare providers to ensure healthy and safe pregnancies. This initiative aligns with the country’s observance of Safe Motherhood Week, celebrated from May 6 to 12, which emphasizes innovations for safer childbirth to tackle maternal mortality rates.

According to Philippines News Agency, mothers are advised to complete eight antenatal check-ups throughout their pregnancy-one in the first trimester, two in the second trimester, and five in the third trimester. For a safe delivery, PhilHealth stresses the importance of giving birth in hospitals or health facilities equipped with trained professionals and appropriate technology to handle any emergencies that may arise during childbirth.

PhilHealth offers several benefit packages to support safe pregnancies. The normal spontaneous delivery package has been increased to PHP9,750 in hospital facilities and PHP12,675 in non-hospital settings. The maternity care package now provides PHP12,675 in hospitals and PHP15,600 in non-hospital facilities. For caesarian deliveries, the package covers PHP37,050, while the dilation and curettage package offers PHP21,450.

The observance of Safe Motherhood Week is an annual event established by Proclamation Number 200 series of 2002, underscoring the importance of maternal health and safety.