What is midwifery assistance?Midwifery assistance includes services provided by freelance midwives in the areas of prenatal care and support, obstetrics, services during the postpartum period and services in the event of breastfeeding difficulties or feeding problems for the child.The costs are covered by health insurance. Midwife assistance can be used by any woman with statutory health insurance.If you have private health insurance, you should contact your health insurance provider in advance to clarify whether the costs will be covered.What services are covered by health insurance?Midwifery assistance is provided by a state-certified midwife. The services include the followingDuring pregnancy:

• Antenatal care
• Counseling services
• Help with pregnancy complaints or labor pains
• Birth preparation in a group

During the birth: birth support in hospital, in a birthing center or during a birth at homeIn the postpartum and breastfeeding period:

• Postpartum care (daily home visit by a midwife until the 10th day after delivery, then up to 16 times within 12 weeks of the birth if required without a doctor's order)
• Postnatal gymnastics in a group, the course must be started by the 4th month after the birth and completed by the 9th month after the birth
• Breastfeeding advice (until the end of the breastfeeding period)

Beyond the breastfeeding period:

• Help with the child's feeding problems (up to 9 months of age)
• Support in special life situations (e.g. in the event of adoption or if the mother is ill)

A doctor's prescription is required for further assistance from a midwife.Some health insurance companies reimburse other midwife services in full or in part (e.g. PEKiP courses etc.). Please contact your health insurance company directly.If you have any questions about midwifery services, please contact your health insurance company.

When am I entitled to midwife assistance?You are entitled to midwife assistance if you have statutory health insurance.If you have private health insurance, you should clarify the cost coverage with your insurance company before you make use of the service.

• § 15 Maternity Protection Act
• §§ Sections 24 c, d, f of the Fifth Book of the German Social Code (SGB V)
• § Section 134 a of the Fifth Book of the Social Code (SGB V)
• Joint circular of the social insurance institutions (GR of 6.12.2017-II)
• Midwife assistance contract and remuneration agreement