The arrival of a new family member is an important event in life. However, the period immediately before giving birth and the subsequent postpartum period place enormous demands on the body and psyche of the new mother.
In this magazin , you magazin everything about the signs of impending labor, typical experiences in the last days before birth, and how you can find valuable relief during and after pregnancy with the help of a domestic helper.
The last days before birth: experiences and physical changes
The period shortly before the due date is characterized by a rollercoaster of emotions. Many women report a mixture of joyful anticipation and a high degree of physical exhaustion. Everyday life becomes more difficult, and the baby is noticeably preparing to leave the womb. Physical complaints can also include a feeling of heaviness in the legs and a more frequent urge to urinate.
Contractions, cervix, and uterus
In the last few days, the preliminary contractions intensify. While practice contractions make the abdomen hard, descent contractions cause the head to slide deep into the pelvis. This can increase pressure on the bladder, but often leads to easier breathing. An important indicator is the change in the cervix. Under the influence of hormones, the cervix softens and shortens. Signs that labor is approaching include an increase in practice contractions and descent contractions and the release of the mucus plug. It is normal to feel both love and worry at the same time, especially during pregnancy.
Digestive changes, such as sudden diarrhea, are also common signs of impending labor.
Emotional roller coaster before giving birth
This phase is often emotionally stressful. Typical emotional reactions shortly before birth include curiosity and impatience, but also fear of pain. Many pregnant women react emotionally hypersensitively to their surroundings.
Despite being very tired, many suffer from sleep disorders. Their thoughts revolve around the health of their child and the upcoming change in their family. Positive affirmations and talking to other parents can help here.
Nesting instinct and preparing for the baby
Despite physical discomfort such as heavy legs or nausea, many women suddenly feel an intense burst of energy: the nesting instinct. This is linked to the desire to prepare everything for the baby. They clean, wash, and check the hospital bag for the tenth time.
Use this energy wisely, but don't overdo it. Gentle methods such as raspberry leaf tea (after consulting your doctor) or a warm bath can help calm the body and prepare it for labor.
When are you entitled to domestic help after pregnancy or childbirth?
Not every pregnant woman gets through the nine months without complications. If managing the household becomes difficult due to pregnancy-related problems or the threat of premature birth, there is legal assistance available.
Legal regulations regarding domestic help and pregnancy according to § 24h SGB V (German Social Security Code)
The legislator has clearly stipulated in SGB V that insured persons are entitled to a benefit in the form of domestic help . This applies in particular during pregnancy or childbirth, when it is not possible to continue running the household.
In contrast to domestic help in general cases of illness (Section 38 SGB V), the threshold is lower in the case of pregnancy. It is not mandatory for another child to live in the household, provided that there is a medical necessity.
Requirements and medical certificate for domestic help
The most important requirement is that no other person living in the household (e.g., partner) can continue to run the household. A doctor must certify the necessity.
Reasons for such a certificate may include:
- Strong premature contractions and prescribed rest.
- Severe symphysis loosening or extreme back pain.
- Persistent and severe nausea.
- Condition after a hospital stay.
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Application for domestic help from the health insurance company
The application should be submitted as early as possible. First, request the appropriate form for applying for domestic help from your health insurance company. Have your doctor's office fill it out.
The application must be submitted before assistance begins. In urgent cases, approval can often be clarified in advance by telephone. The health insurance fund will then examine each individual case to determine the extent and duration of the support to be provided in the patient's own home.
Cost coverage, duration, and scope of domestic help during pregnancy and after childbirth
Many families worry about the financial aspects. However, the legal regulations are designed to benefit the mother, ensuring the recovery and safety of both mother and child.
Domestic help: costs covered without additional payment
A key advantage of benefits for pregnancy or childbirth is that the costs are usually covered in full. There are no statutory co-payments, as is the case with medication or a regular hospital stay.
The health insurance company covers the costs for professional service providers directly. If you organize private assistance, reimbursement will be made up to a certain hourly wage amount after prior consultation.
Support from family or professional providers
Various options are available as providers:
- Contractual partners: Professional services (e.g., Caritas, Diakonie, or private care services) that bill the health insurance company directly.
- Relatives & neighbors: Friends or neighbors can also help out. In most cases, travel expenses or loss of earnings are reimbursed.
- Other people: If you cannot find anyone, the health insurance fund will often help you find a suitable caregiver.
Important: Relatives up to the second degree do not receive an hourly wage, but can apply for reimbursement for loss of earnings and travel expenses.
Domestic help during the postpartum period and after childbirth
The entitlement does not end with childbirth. Especially after a cesarean section, multiple births, or health problems after childbirth, the need often remains.
The postpartum period is a time of healing. If the mother is unable to care for the child or the household due to illness or exhaustion, support continues. Childcare is often a central part of the service so that the mother can rest.
Conclusion: Domestic help during and after pregnancy
The last few days before your child arrives are an exceptional situation. Listen to your body and take the signs seriously. If the strain becomes too much, don't be afraid to seek professional help. The legal entitlement to domestic help is not charity, but an important pillar of health care for pregnant women and young mothers. Applying early will ensure you get the relief you need so that you can focus fully on your baby.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about domestic help during pregnancy
1. Who issues the certificate for domestic help?
As a rule, your gynecologist will issue the medical certificate. If you are hospitalized, this can also be done by the hospital.
2. How long can I claim domestic help?
The duration depends on medical necessity. As long as the doctor confirms that you are unable to run your household and that there is a risk, assistance can be provided.
3. Do I have to pay extra for domestic help myself in the case of a high-risk pregnancy?
No. If domestic help is necessary due to pregnancy complications or in connection with childbirth (Section 24h of the German Social Code, Book V), the usual co-payment is waived entirely.
4. Can my partner step in as a domestic helper?
Yes, the partner can take unpaid leave. In this case, the health insurance company often reimburses the net loss of earnings (up to a statutory maximum limit) if the partner takes on the care.
5. What happens if I am in the hospital?
You are also entitled to this benefit during a hospital stay, especially if you already have another child in your household who needs to be cared for.
