The German Bundestag has passed a law allowing women who have experienced a miscarriage after the 13th week of pregnancy to take maternity leave.
According to DW, an overwhelming majority of lawmakers supported the initiative, which aims to provide physical and emotional support for women. Sarah Larkamp, a member of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), emphasized the importance of the new law in protecting women’s rights.
Previously, maternity leave in Germany was granted six weeks before childbirth and continued for eight weeks after, but it did not apply in cases of miscarriage. Women who lost a child before the 24th week of pregnancy had to apply for sick leave on their own. Now, they will have the option to take maternity leave, although it remains a right rather than an obligation. The bill will be reviewed by the Bundesrat on February 14. If approved, it is expected to take effect on June 1.
Reports indicate that around six thousand miscarriages occur in Germany each year between the 13th and 24th weeks of pregnancy. However, the majority of cases—approximately 84 thousand—happen before the 12th week, and the new law does not apply to them.
Additionally, the Bundestag has decided to provide free contraceptives to women covered by mandatory health insurance if there is documented evidence of violence or rape.
