Rights of pregnant mothers in Germany
Introduction
In Germany, pregnant women enjoy strong legal protection during pregnancy and after childbirth, primarily under the Maternity Protection Act (Mutterschutzgesetz). This law aims to ensure that pregnant or breastfeeding women are not dismissed from their jobs, reflecting the state’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of mothers.
This article outlines the rights of pregnant women in Germany, including protection against dismissal during pregnancy and after childbirth, the extension of protection periods in cases of children with disabilities or multiple pregnancies, and the rights of women in vocational training and school, to ensure safety and security throughout pregnancy.
What is protection against dismissal?
Protection against dismissal starts at the beginning of pregnancy and continues until the end of the postnatal protection period, which lasts at least four months after childbirth. During this time, an employer may not terminate the employment contract of a pregnant or breastfeeding employee, except in specific, narrowly defined situations – for example, after a miscarriage following the twelfth week of pregnancy.
This protection is intended to provide a safe and stable environment for mothers, thus promoting their well-being and that of their children.
Special regulations for children with disabilities
If a child is born with a disability, the mother can apply to her statutory health insurance provider for an extension of the postnatal protection period to twelve weeks.
This extension is granted in situations where increased care, medical treatment and psychological support are needed, and reflects the importance of acknowledging the additional burdens associated with such births.
Pregnancy with twins or multiples
In cases of pregnancy with twins or more, the maternity protection period begins six weeks prior to the expected date of birth, just as in a single pregnancy.
However, after childbirth, the protection period is extended by an additional four weeks, resulting in a total of twelve weeks of protection after birth. This extension recognises the increased physical and emotional strain that multiple births can place on mothers.
Maternity protection during vocational training
Women in vocational training (Ausbildung) are also covered by maternity protection and enjoy protection against dismissal.
If you are pregnant during your training, you can apply to have your training period extended before the final examination, especially if you have been absent frequently due to pregnancy-related reasons.
If you fail the final exam, you may apply to extend your training for up to one additional year to improve your chances of successfully completing your qualification.
Maternity protection for school students
Pregnant school students also benefit from special protection.
If you are still attending school during your pregnancy, you may be excused from compulsory school activities or examinations that could pose a risk to your health or your baby’s health – without suffering any formal disadvantages as a result.
This protection ensures that young women can continue their education while safeguarding their own well-being and that of their children.
Conclusion
Understanding maternity rights and protection against dismissal in Germany is essential for every pregnant woman. These rights help create a safe and stable working and learning environment, enabling mothers to focus on their health and their children’s health without constantly worrying about losing their job or training place.
*The editorial team and authors of our website strive to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some details may be incomplete or not fully verified. Therefore, the information contained in our articles should be regarded as an initial point of reference. For binding and up-to-date advice, always contact the competent authorities and official institutions.
