■ How Much Do Pregnancy and Childbirth Costs? While welcoming a new family member through pregnancy and childbirth brings great joy, many people may be concerned about the costs of childbirth and childcare. "How much does childbirth cost?" "Will the budget I planned in advance be enough?" These financial anxieties are a common concern for those who are about to give birth. So, how much do actual childbirth costs differ from the amounts anticipated beforehand? Therefore, in collaboration with Hiraishi Children's Clinic, we conducted a survey on "Costs and Financial Preparations for Childbirth and Childcare" targeting 250 men and women nationwide who responded "have children" in a preliminary survey. *When quoting the content of this press release, please take the following actions:* * Indicate that the source is "a survey by NEXER Inc. and Hiraishi Children's Clinic." * Include a link to Hiraishi Children's Clinic (https://hiraishi-clinic.com/) Survey Overview: "Survey on Costs and Financial Preparations for Childbirth and Childcare" Survey Method: Internet-based questionnaire Survey Period: June 23, 2026 - June 29, 2026 Survey Target: Men and women nationwide who responded "have children" in a preliminary survey Valid Responses: 250 samples Questions: Question 1: Regarding the costs incurred for pregnancy and childbirth, what was the total amount you expected before childbirth? Question 2: What was the total amount of actual costs incurred for pregnancy and childbirth (out-of-pocket expenses)? Question 3: Did you feel a gap between your expectations and the actual costs for pregnancy and childbirth? Question 4: What do you think were the factors or events that led to the gap between your expectations and reality? Question 5: What methods did you use to prepare for the costs of pregnancy and childbirth? (Multiple selections allowed) Question 6: How did you feel about the costs of prenatal testing (NIPT, amniocentesis, etc.)? Question 7: Please explain the reason for