Key Takeaways
- Die Wahl der richtigen Hebamme ist entscheidend für eine optimale Betreuung während Schwangerschaft, Geburt und Wochenbett.
- Schwangere sollten frühzeitig mit der Suche beginnen, da Hebammen oft schnell ausgebucht sind, und dabei verschiedene Modelle der Hebammenbetreuung sowie Empfehlungen und Online-Ressourcen nutzen.
- In Deutschland haben alle gesetzlich versicherten Frauen* Anspruch auf Hebammenhilfe, die eine umfassende Unterstützung von der Vorsorge bis zur Wochenbettbetreuung umfasst.
Choosing the right midwife is a key step on the journey through pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. But when is the best time to start looking, and what should expectant mothers consider when making their choice? In this article, we provide helpful tips and guidance to support pregnant women* in finding the right midwife in good time—someone who can provide optimal care and support during this special period.
Who is entitled to midwifery care?
All women* covered by statutory health insurance in Germany (and usually those with private insurance as well) are legally entitled to midwifery care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period (§ 24d and § 134a of the German Social Code V).
Midwifery care includes prenatal checkups, counseling, birth assistance, postpartum support, and guidance with breastfeeding and infant nutrition. Like doctors, midwives follow the maternity guidelines set by the Federal Joint Committee, which define the scope, timing, and procedures for prenatal care.
What should be clear before starting your search?
Since midwives offer a wide range of services, it makes sense to think in advance about what type of support you want. Common models include:
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Attending midwives: They provide comprehensive prenatal care (or alternate every four weeks with gynecological care), one-to-one birth support, and postpartum care.
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Prenatal and postpartum midwives: They cover prenatal care (or alternate with gynecological care every four weeks) and postpartum care, but do not attend the birth.
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Postpartum midwives: They focus only on postpartum support, while prenatal care is covered by the gynecologist.
Meeting your midwife during pregnancy is valuable, as it gives her an overview of your health and your baby’s development. It also helps strengthen the bond, making it easier to address potential issues before birth and take preventive steps.
When is the best time to start looking?
In practice, the best time to begin your search is as soon as you receive a positive pregnancy test. Especially in rural areas, finding a midwife can be a challenge, but even in cities, women* often report long searches.
Where can I find a midwife?
Women* in Germany can use different strategies to find a midwife:
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Midwifery associations and chambers
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The German Midwives Association (DHV) offers an online search by postal code or city.
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In federal states with midwifery chambers, such as Rhineland-Palatinate or Lower Saxony, there are also dedicated search services.
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Health insurance providers
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Statutory insurers often provide assistance in finding midwives and may supply regional contact lists.
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Doctors and hospitals
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Gynecologists and maternity hospitals usually have connections with midwives and can provide recommendations. Some gynecology practices work with freelance midwives.
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Online platforms
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Websites such as ammely.de can help connect you with midwives offering services nearby.
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Friends and family
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Personal recommendations are often very helpful.
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Pharmacies and health centers
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These sometimes have information on local midwives and can point you in the right direction.
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Summary: Step by step to finding a midwife
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Start early: Begin your search as soon as possible, as midwives are often booked quickly.
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Research online and offline: Use the methods above to identify midwives in your area.
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Get in touch: Call or email midwives to ask about availability and services.
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Arrange a meeting: Schedule an introductory conversation to see if you are a good fit and whether she can meet your needs.
Note: Unfortunately, health insurance covers the cost of an introductory meeting with only one midwife. If you arrange more than one meeting, the midwives concerned always appreciate an open approach.
In conclusion, it can be said that choosing the right midwife has a considerable impact on wellbeing during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Starting the search early is crucial to ensure the best possible care. Make use of the various options for research and contact to find a midwife who matches your individual needs and with whom you feel comfortable. Also rely on recommendations from your surroundings, and do not hesitate to have several conversations in order to find the right support. A good midwife not only provides professional competence but also creates a trusting atmosphere that ensures a positive and safe experience during this special time.
