Expecting a child as a university student can be a challenging experience!!
Germany has a Maternity Protection Act that offers special care to university students before and after childbirth, making student life and motherhood smoother. This act ensures that every student mother has access to comprehensive support that caters to their unique needs during this delicate period. The period leading up to childbirth is a crucial time for the mother. It’s a time when she needs to take extra care of herself, rest, and freshen up her mood. Therefore, it’s essential to keep in mind some critical steps to ensure a stress-free experience. These may include getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in light exercises to keep the body fit. By doing so, mothers can ensure that they are well-prepared for the arrival of their little one.
As a student and a new mom, it will be really difficult time period. But, some extra preparation and knowledge will make your journey safe and sound.
How to get some benefits from the Maternity Protection Act
Planning your studies during pregnancy and lactation requires careful consideration and consultation with your healthcare provider. To ensure the safety and well-being of both you and your baby, it is crucial that you follow some specific guidelines.
Moreover, you should consider the potential risks and benefits of your academic pursuits in light of your pregnancy or lactation, and adjust your plans accordingly. For instance, you may need to modify your course load, schedule, and mode of learning to accommodate your changing needs and responsibilities. By taking these measures, you can ensure that you make informed decisions about your studies during pregnancy and lactation, and create a supportive and healthy environment for you and your baby.
- When you first visit your doctor, you will receive a small notebook called ‚MutterPass‘ after examination. This notebook is essential, and you should keep it safe because it contains all your test records before and after pregnancy.
- Inform your university about your pregnancy by contacting the international office or student secretariat. They will be your first point of contact.
- Schedule your semester in accordance with the Maternity Protection Act. As a student during pregnancy or lactation period, you cannot participate in any exam six weeks before and eight weeks after the delivery of your child.
- For your safety and that of your child, you are not allowed to do lab work or take courses related to labs that involve chemicals during your pregnancy period.
- You can take a semester off as maternity leave, called the Urlaub semester. You are actually allowed to take two semesters as an Urlaub semester.
- According to the Maternity Protection Act, pregnant or lactating mothers cannot participate in any classes or course-related activities between 8 pm and 6 am.
Schedule your semester in accordance with the Maternity Protection Act. As a student during pregnancy or lactation period, you cannot participate in any exam six weeks before and eight weeks after the delivery of your child.
There are some other points on your ‚to do list‘ you will come across as a Mother:
What is a ‚Geburtsvorbereitungkurs‘?
As a student, you can also take steps to help raise your children. One option is to enroll in a Geburtsvorbereitung course or parental classes. These classes are offered by hospitals and the German Red Cross. You can find information about them locally in the city where you live. The course is designed to prepare you for delivery and after birth. It includes light exercise sessions, health information, and yoga classes. You should complete the course four weeks before your due date.
Another option is to choose a midwife or Hebamme in Germany.
Who is the Hebamme?
You will receive a list of midwives and their contact information, along with the languages they speak, from your assigned doctor. It’s best to choose a midwife early on, as they are in high demand and can be difficult to find. Your midwife will assist you during your pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum period. They will also visit your home to check on you and your baby, and provide you with advice and information on your baby’s nutrition and breastfeeding.
KiTa?
Being a student can be overwhelming, and it’s important to find ways to make your studies more manageable. One great solution is to apply for a spot in your university’s daycare center. Did you know that almost every higher education institution in Germany has a daycare center, or Kita, available to students? These centers offer different groups for children starting at 9 months old. So why not give it a try? It could make your life a lot easier! Normally, daycare centers open early, from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
For those who may be expecting and studying in Germany, the above-mentions steps can offer guidance on successfully navigating the academic and parental responsibilities of motherhood.
You can also check this link to have more information: