Watch the video
Am I pregnant?
Early signs – and why your body suddenly feels “strange”You may recognize this: your period does not come, you feel constantly tired, smells suddenly seem unpleasant, or you strongly crave sweet or sour foods. This can be confusing—and sometimes worrying.
The most reliable early sign of pregnancy is a missed period. Even before that, your body may give early clues, such as:
- A feeling of tension or pulling in the breasts
- Pulling sensations in the lower abdomen
- Severe tiredness
- Nausea, vomiting, or increased saliva
- Dizziness
- Frequent need to urinate or constipation
- Unusual cravings or strong appetite
If several of these signs occur and your period does not start, you may be pregnant.
Important to know
These signs are not definitive. Many women experience similar symptoms before their period or during times of stress. Conversely, a woman can also be pregnant without any symptoms. Every pregnancy is different.
Certainty through a pregnancy test
If you want to be sure, a pregnancy test can help. Urine tests for home use are available without a prescription at pharmacies, drugstores, or online. You can also get a test done free of charge by a doctor or a midwife.
I am pregnant – what now?
As soon as it is confirmed that you are pregnant, you should make an appointment for your first prenatal check-up. This can be done by a midwife or a gynecologist.
At this appointment:
- you will be asked about your health and any previous illnesses
- your blood pressure, weight, urine, and blood will be examined
- tests will be done to check for infections
- you will receive your maternity record (Mutterpass)
The maternity record accompanies you throughout the entire pregnancy. Please keep it in a safe place.
Regular prenatal check-ups
During pregnancy, regular check-ups take place—usually every four weeks, and every two weeks from the 32nd week onward. In addition, three ultrasound examinations are planned. Between the 24th and 28th week, a test for gestational diabetes is recommended.
Right to medical care
- Pregnant women in Germany have the right to medical care.
- Asylum seekers and women with temporary suspension of deportation (Duldung) receive benefits under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act.
- Recognized refugees are usually covered through statutory health insurance.
Health tips for pregnancy
Nutrition:
- Eat regularly and a balanced diet
- Plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain products
- Drink enough water
- No alcohol and no drugs
- Avoid raw animal products
Physical activity:
- Light exercise is good for both mother and child
- Walks or gentle gymnastics are ideal
- Listen to your body
Pregnancy and deportation
Pregnancy does not automatically mean that deportation is ruled out. However, if there are medical reasons, deportation may be temporarily suspended. A medical certificate is usually required for this. In such a situation, be sure to seek counseling.
Counseling and support
Brandenburg:
Refugee Council Brandenburg
https://www.fluechtlingsrat-brandenburg.de
Berlin:
Refugee Council Berlin
https://fluechtlingsrat-berlin.de
Berlin Midwives’ Center
https://www.hebammenzentrale-berlin.de
Pro Familia Berlin
https://www.profamilia.de/angebote-vor-ort/berlin