#247Eine Frau ist schwanger. Sie ist kurz vor und nach der Geburt ihres Kindes vom Gesetz besonders beschützt. Wie heißt dieser Schutz?
A woman is pregnant. She is particularly protected by law shortly before and after the birth of her child. What is this protection called?
Quick Controls
The correct answer is:
maternity leave
Mutterschutz
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Quick explanation
The special protection for women shortly before and after giving birth is called maternity protection (Mutterschutz).
Why is this correct?
The Maternity Protection Act protects the health of mother and child and secures the job.
Background
The maternity protection period begins six weeks before the expected due date and usually ends eight weeks after the birth, or twelve weeks after premature or multiple births. Before the birth, the woman may work if she expressly wishes to; after the birth there is a ban on employment. During this time she receives maternity benefit from the health insurance fund and a supplement from her employer. In addition, she generally may not be dismissed during pregnancy and up to four months after the birth.
Why are the other answers wrong?
Parental leave (Elternzeit) is time off work for mothers and fathers until the child’s third birthday. Birth preparation is a course for expectant parents, and the “Wochenbett” is the weeks of physical recovery after the birth – neither is legal protection.
Memory tip
Maternity protection: 6 weeks before, 8 weeks after the birth.
Legal basis: Sec. 3 Maternity Protection Act ↗
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