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You are not alone
A pregnancy can trigger many emotions – especially if it is unplanned. You might feel unsure, overwhelmed, or scared. You might not know who to talk to. We want to tell you: You are not alone – and in Germany there are clear rules and reliable help.
Whether you only suspect that you are pregnant or you already know – there are options. And you have the right to receive free, anonymous, and confidential advice.
Emergency contraception – when time is critical
If you are unsure after sexual intercourse whether you could become pregnant, the “morning-after pill” can help. It works better the sooner you take it – ideally within three to five days, depending on the product. You can get it at pharmacies or from doctors – and you will receive advice there as well.
You are pregnant – what now?
In Germany, you have different options if you are pregnant. Important: No one can force you to make a decision. It’s about you – and your life. State-recognized counseling centers will guide you on your path – regardless of the decision you make.
You can…
…continue the pregnancy
If you decide to have the child, there are many support options – e.g., financial aid such as child benefits or parental allowance, workplace protection, housing assistance, and much more. A counseling center can help you plan your path and find the right support.
…place your child for adoption
If you cannot or do not want to raise the child yourself, adoption after birth is possible. Even in this case, you are entitled to guidance and counseling – both before and after birth.
…terminate the pregnancy
Abortion is legally possible in Germany under certain conditions.
Up to the 12th week after conception (about the 14th week of pregnancy), it remains legally unpunished if you:
- attend counseling at a state-recognized center,
- receive a counseling certificate, and
- wait at least three days before the procedure is performed.
If the pregnancy resulted from sexual violence, the waiting period and certificate are waived – but the 12-week limit still applies.
If your life or health is at risk, an abortion can also be medically justified after this period.
Costs and medical care
Usually, you have to cover the costs of the abortion yourself. However, if you have limited finances, you can apply for assistance – other institutions can then cover the costs. Counseling centers can help you arrange this.
For medical or criminal indications, your statutory health insurance or social services cover the costs directly.
Important: Regular prenatal check-ups and medical care are generally covered by statutory health insurance, even if you have only recently arrived in Germany.
Many women believe that having a baby protects them from deportation. In fact, young mothers are granted residence rights only for at least six weeks after birth. After that, they could theoretically be deported.
You don’t have to tell anyone – not even your parents
If you need to keep your pregnancy secret, Germany offers the option of a “confidential birth.” You receive medical help and support, and your identity remains protected. It is only stored at a counseling center and later made accessible to your child under certain conditions.
Even if you are under 18, you have the right to confidential and safe counseling. Whether you can decide for yourself or need medical consent depends on the individual case. But even if it is hard to talk with your family: you will get help.
Language, fear, pressure? Get support.
There are many reasons why it can be hard to seek help: language barriers, shame, fear of exclusion, or pressure from your environment.
But you have the right to support – no matter where you come from or your residence status. Counseling is confidential, free, and does not affect your asylum procedure.
Many counseling centers offer free interpreters if you need help in your language.
You don’t have to go through this alone.
If you feel stuck, have questions, or just need someone to listen: contact us.
Come to Albatros.
We offer you a safe space –
without pressure, without judgment,
but with lots of experience, openness, and respect.
Confidential. Free. In your language.
Request a personal consultation