Birth in Germany: maternity leave and documents

Mutterschutz protects the mother by law: 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after birth work is banned. The money comes from the Krankenkasse plus employer (Mutterschaftsgeld ~€13/day plus full salary). The Hebamme comes free via insurance, weighs and helps. Documents after birth: birth certificate, Kindergeld (€255/month), Elterngeld, the child’s Krankenkasse — all must be done within 3 months.

• ●Find a midwife in month 4–5 — demand outstrips supply
• ●Delivery ward tour — visit the maternity ward a month ahead
• ●Vaterschaftsanerkennung — unmarried couples must formally acknowledge paternity