Babies cost 'more than parents think'
Published On 3 February 2007
Few expectant couples are prepared for the financial costs of having a baby, new research has revealed. A new study by Halifax reveals that new parents will be £1,600 out of pocket soon after having their little one.
But the baby starts racking up the costs way before they are born, with even pregnancy tests costing around £8, while an ovulation test could set you back £15.99.
Mums-to-be could have to fork out as much as £60 for a home fertility kit, while many invest in pregnancy guide books to get some top tips, which average £17.
The typical woman spends a fortune and clothes and that's no different when she is expecting, with households spending around £240 on maternity clothes, including bras, dresses, tops and skirts.
"You may think that all the major costs involved with bringing up children are in the distant future," said Mike Regnier, head of savings at Halifax.
"However, a significant outlay is required even before your new addition to the family makes his or her arrival. For many, the run up to a baby can signal a shopping frenzy, be it for cots, toys or just baby clothes."
