Yes, Lamaze classes are eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) when the instruction is provided to prepare for childbirth and is medically related.
Why Are Lamaze Classes FSA/HSA Eligible?
Lamaze classes are a form of childbirth education that teach breathing techniques, pain management, and labor preparation. These classes help expectant parents prepare physically and mentally for labor and delivery, and are considered medically relevant when focused on supporting a healthy, informed birth experience.
According to IRS Publication 502, childbirth classes are reimbursable when the focus is on labor, delivery, and medically necessary preparation for childbirth. Costs related to a birth partner’s attendance or general parenting education are not covered, but the portion of the class related to labor and delivery is eligible.
FSA- and HSA-eligible portions of Lamaze classes may include:
Breathing and relaxation techniques for labor
Pain coping strategies during childbirth
Positions and movements for labor
Understanding labor stages and when to go to the hospital
Medical interventions and birthing options
- Managing complications or high-risk scenarios (when applicable)
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Class portions that focus on newborn care, breastfeeding, or parenting
Participation fees for a spouse, partner, or doula
Supplies or books not directly related to labor instruction
General wellness classes for expectant parents not tied to labor/delivery preparation
Courses not taught by qualified or licensed childbirth educators
To qualify, the class content must be focused on preparing for labor and delivery, and you may be required to submit documentation showing the eligible portion of the cost.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Lamaze Classes
You can use your FSA or HSA card to pay for the eligible portion of Lamaze or childbirth classes. If the class fee covers multiple topics:
Ask the instructor or facility to provide a breakdown of the cost specifically related to labor/delivery preparation
Request an itemized receipt listing eligible instructional content
Submit documentation to your FSA or HSA administrator for partial reimbursement, if needed
For more details on eligible prenatal expenses, refer to IRS Publication 502.
