AdminAntenatal care helps keep mother and baby healthy throughout pregnancy. In Nigeria, the first step is usually “booking” or registering at a hospital or clinic, which comes with a registration fee and a set of tests. Costs vary widely between public and private facilities.
This guide covers typical antenatal registration costs, the tests and scans you may need, antenatal packages and how to plan your budget.
Note: This article covers costs only. Always follow the advice of your doctor or midwife about your pregnancy care.
Quick Answer: Antenatal Registration Costs in Nigeria
| Facility | Estimated registration / booking cost |
|---|---|
| Primary health centre | Free – ₦20,000 |
| General or federal/teaching hospital | ₦10,000 – ₦60,000 |
| Private hospital | ₦50,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Premium antenatal package (often with delivery) | ₦300,000 – ₦1,500,000+ |
These figures are estimates. Some hospitals include booking tests in the registration fee; others charge for them separately.
Common Booking Tests and Their Costs
| Test | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Full blood count / PCV | ₦3,000 – ₦10,000 |
| Blood group and genotype | ₦3,000 – ₦10,000 |
| HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis screening | ₦5,000 – ₦20,000 |
| Urinalysis | ₦2,000 – ₦5,000 |
| Blood sugar | ₦2,000 – ₦6,000 |
| Ultrasound scan (each) | ₦10,000 – ₦40,000 |
Some of these screenings are free in public facilities under government programmes. Ask what is covered.
Ongoing Antenatal Costs
After registration, you will usually attend regular check-ups. The World Health Organization recommends at least eight antenatal contacts during pregnancy. Ongoing costs may include:
- Consultation fees per visit (often included in packages)
- Supplements prescribed by your doctor
- Repeat tests and scans
- Antenatal classes, which some hospitals offer free and others charge for
Antenatal Packages
Many private hospitals offer antenatal packages that cover registration, routine visits, some tests and sometimes delivery. These can save money if you plan to deliver at the same hospital, but always read what is included and excluded, especially for C-sections or complications.
How to Save on Antenatal Care
- Register early so you can spread costs over the pregnancy.
- Compare two or three hospitals before booking.
- Ask about free services at public facilities.
- Use your health insurance if you have one.
- Choose a package if you plan to deliver at the same hospital.
- Keep all receipts and results in one folder.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I register for antenatal care?
Health workers generally advise registering as early as possible in pregnancy. Speak to your doctor or midwife about the right time for you.
Is antenatal care free in Nigeria?
Some primary health centres and government programmes offer free or low-cost antenatal services. Costs vary by state and facility.
Does health insurance cover antenatal care?
Many NHIA and private HMO plans cover antenatal care. Check your plan’s coverage and approved hospitals.
Final Thoughts
Antenatal registration is an important first step for a healthy pregnancy. Compare options, ask for written costs and plan ahead for both antenatal care and delivery.
For more family cost guides, read how much it costs to give birth in Nigeria and naming ceremony costs in our Marriage & Family Costs category.
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