New insurance policy sparks controversy

When looking to taking out insurance, many types of premiums are possible. Health insurance, motor insurance and even life insurance can all be bought easily for a number of insurers.

However, a new type of insurance has been launched for those not even with us yet - unborn babies.

One of Australia's largest insurance companies ING recently launched the premiums which expectant mothers across the country can take out in preparation of the birth of their child.

Aimed at women aged between 16 and 40, the policy provides payouts of up to $50,000 for defects such as Down syndrome, spina bifida and blindness.

According to ING, women who suffer ectopic pregnancies or complications during birth will also get $50,000, while still birth will qualify for a $10,000 payout.

ING spokesman Mark Vilo told Fairfax: "Every woman in the process of having a child knows the risks."

But the launch of this insurance policy has been criticised by a number of associations, which claim that such a product would spark fear into expectant mothers.

The New South Wales Midwives Association criticised the policy, saying ING was marketing fear to expectant mothers.

"It is making women think about the terrible things that can happen when the reality is there are very few mothers who suffer from complications during pregnancy," association secretary Dr Hannah Dahlen said.

"Insurance companies are going to go where they can make a buck.

"It is marketing fear and uncertainty when women are vulnerable during pregnancy."

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