Pregnancy and maternity protection

Protection of expectant mothers and (unborn) children is regulated by law through the Mutterschutzgesetz(Maternity Protection Act) - abbreviated to ‘MuSchG’. As of 01 January 2018, students also receive special protection in accordance with the Mutterschutzgesetz during pregnancy, after childbirth and when breastfeeding. Students are included in accordance with the provisions which apply if the place, time and sequence of the education/training event are obligatory, or if within the scope of school or university-based education completion of an internship is obligatory (Section 1 paragraph 2 item 2 number 8 MuSchG). 

What does this mean? – Protection and flexibility for students

The period of protection in accordance with the MuSchG starts six weeks before the expected due date and ends eight weeks after childbirth. During this period of protection students are fundamentally exempted from compulsory courses and examinations. However, students have the option - unlike employees - to forego maternity protection if they expressly wish to do so and provided that nothing obstructs the health-related protection of mother and child. During the maternity protection period students can sit examinations or other academic achievements but they must communicate their desire to do so in writing and in advance.    

Who needs to be told? – Telling people about your pregnancy

In order for students to be able to exercise their rights in accordance with the Mutterschutzgesetz, and so that the university can take the necessary protection measures, students should inform the university about a pregnancy as soon as possible. The Student Office is the first point of contact for informing the university about a pregnancy.

If you have any questions or require more information, you can also contact the Student Office or the Equal Opportunity Office.

Further information on maternity protection