Special Beginnings
A Special Program from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois For Expectant Moms.

Make Healthy Choices
Welcome to Special Beginnings online! Special Beginnings links mothers-to-be with important pregnancy-related health care information, assuring you have everything needed to consistently make healthy choices. After all, healthy choices make for a healthier baby.

Call Maternity Nurses Any Time
Once registered with Special Beginnings, you can begin to use BabyLine^®. This toll-free phone line is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can speak with a maternity nurse, who will answer any questions you may have, even on weekends! All you have to do is call 1-800-395-BABY (2229).

Meeting Your Needs
As part of the Special Beginnings program, you need to complete three maternity questionnaires at various times during your pregnancy. You will receive a book, "Your Journey Through Pregnancy" which provides information on pregnancy, wellness, nutrition, high risk pregnancy conditions, and delivery. If you have special needs regarding your pregnancy, you will also receive special follow-up from a maternity nurse, who consults with your doctor to be sure you get the support you need.

A Newsletter Just For You
If you have an e-mail address, you can also receive an online maternity newsletter. You'll receive the newsletter every two weeks, beginning at 13 weeks in your pregnancy. The newsletter gives you additional information about your pregnancy, tips for dads, and other general health articles.

Getting Started
Getting started is simple. Call 1-800-395-BABY (2229) to complete your initial questionnaire. Once you have completed the initial questionnaire, you will receive a letter with your User ID and Password in the mail. You can then use this web site to view your assessment results and educational materials on specific pregnancy related topics. Just go to the Assessment Center and enter your ID and password.

If you haven't registered for Special Beginnings yet,
call (800)395-BABY(2229)
to get started today!

We look forward to being a resource for you during your pregnancy.

The Special Beginnings program is administered by Alere^® through a contractual arrangement between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois and Alere Women's and Children's Health, LLC. Obstetrical nurses are available for consultation from enrollment through six weeks after delivery. The program is not intended to replace your physician's care.