PIP for Pregnancy Complications - Can You Claim?

Normal pregnancy does not qualify for PIP. However, pregnancy complications that cause significant, long-term functional difficulties can. The key is whether the condition is expected to last at least 9 months from the date of your claim, including the 3-month qualifying period.

Pregnancy Complications That May Qualify

Hyperemesis gravidarum - Severe, persistent vomiting that prevents you from eating, drinking, preparing food, or leaving the house. If it lasts throughout pregnancy (some cases), this may meet the duration requirement.

Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) / pelvic girdle pain - Severe pelvic pain affecting walking, climbing stairs, dressing, and getting in/out of bed. If this develops early in pregnancy and is expected to persist post-birth (which it often does), it may qualify.

Pre-eclampsia requiring long-term monitoring - If pre-eclampsia leads to ongoing health issues post-birth (kidney problems, hypertension), these ongoing conditions qualify in their own right.

Gestational diabetes leading to permanent type 2 diabetes - If diabetes persists after birth, you can claim for the ongoing condition.

Post-natal depression / post-natal psychosis - These are mental health conditions in their own right and absolutely qualify for PIP. Don't wait until things get worse - claim as soon as symptoms are affecting your daily life.

Conditions That Existed Before Pregnancy

If you already have a disability that pregnancy makes significantly worse, you can claim PIP based on the combined impact. For example, if you have fibromyalgia that was manageable but pregnancy has made it severely disabling, claim for fibromyalgia as the primary condition with pregnancy complications as an aggravating factor.

After Birth

Post-natal conditions that affect your daily life - post-natal depression, PTSD from traumatic birth, physical injuries from delivery (severe tearing, prolapse), and ongoing complications - all qualify for PIP. Many new mothers don't realise they can claim because they assume their difficulties are "normal." If you cannot care for yourself (not your baby - PIP is about YOUR needs, not caregiving), you may qualify.

Frequently Asked Questions

I have severe morning sickness. Can I claim?

Standard morning sickness probably doesn't meet the 12-month duration requirement. But hyperemesis gravidarum (severe, persistent vomiting requiring hospital treatment) that starts in early pregnancy and continues throughout may qualify, especially if symptoms persist post-birth.

I developed gestational diabetes. Does that count?

If gestational diabetes resolves after birth, it won't meet the duration requirement. But if it becomes permanent type 2 diabetes, you can claim for the ongoing condition. Monitor your blood sugars post-birth and claim if diabetes persists.