With Mother’s Day fast approaching – the 10th of March for those who don’t know, or have more likely forgotten – now is a time to remember all that mum has done for you throughout your life.

From before your birth and as you have grown, you mother has probably put herself at risk for your benefit. And for those that are expecting, it is a day that will soon take on a whole new meaning.

Often, health concerns surrounding a new arrival may well lead parents to consider private medical insurance to make sure they are prepared for whatever eventuality.

Perhaps strangely, many health insurance policies will not cover general pregnancy arrangements in the UK whereas they will cover conditions that arise from childbirth. Private hospitals and clinics having the facilities available to treat and monitor any complications that may occur at this difficult time. Changing the industry somewhat last year, Axa PPP did decide to cover pregnancy with a new top of the range policy. But anyone that wants to become a mother should know; this policy does not come cheap.

After birth family health insurance is certainly something that will have occurred to many parents. And with the average cost of a private medical insurance having risen to around £135 per month in recent years, it is no small consideration. For any new mothers, it is useful to know that there are more options than the large insurers such as Bupa and Axa, despite the fact that they control nearly 90% of the market. Therefore it would be advisable to mums to compare health insurance thoroughly before they buy, as they could be surprised.

Family history is something that has come to affect insurance greatly through research over the past few years. Depending on your mother’s medical history, your own decisions regarding health insurance could well be affected. For women this is especially true, with a doubled risk of breast cancer if there is any family history of the condition. Other illnesses that are considered include ovarian cancer, coronary heart disease and certain neurological conditions.

Critical illness policies are designed especially to cater for serious illnesses such as these, and taking out cover could be the best decision depending on your family circumstances. When applying for cover however, it is important to be specific about any relatives’ conditions and any treatment received, as otherwise they may be penalised for issues that are not actually familial.