An unwanted pregnancy can trigger many feelings: insecurity, fear, or feeling overwhelmed. In Bremen, there are counseling centers and medical services that support women and their families – confidentially and without judgment of their personal decisions. No woman has to face this situation alone. If a woman decides against a pregnancy, it is advisable to learn about the legal framework, costs, procedures, and treatment options beforehand. We have compiled the most important information for you.
What are the legal foundations?
In Germany, abortion is legal under certain conditions. The most common regulation is the so-called counseling requirement (§ 218a paragraph 1 of the Criminal Code (StGB)). Abortions are also permitted for medical reasons or after a crime, such as sexual abuse.
What deadlines apply?
- The abortion must take place within the first 12 weeks after conception (approximately the 14th week of pregnancy).
- Pregnancy counseling is mandatory beforehand. Every woman has the right to support and advice from a pregnancy counseling center.
- There must be at least 3 days of reflection between consultation and procedure .
What steps are important now?
- Decision-making and counseling: Many women initially contact a pregnancy counseling center. There they can find information, support, and the legally required counseling certificate.
- Medical consultation: This is followed by examination, ultrasound and information on the possible methods.
- Abortion: Depending on the week of pregnancy, two methods are possible: a medical abortion OR a surgical abortion(vacuum aspiration method). The procedures are usually performed on an outpatient basis.
- Aftercare: Medical check-ups and psychosocial counseling can be helpful after an abortion. Counseling centers continue to support women and their families even after the procedure.
Who will cover the costs?
In cases of medical or criminological indication (e.g., after rape), health insurance covers the full cost of an abortion. Under the counseling-based procedure, the costs must usually be paid out of pocket. Preliminary examinations and aftercare are often covered by health insurance. Women with low incomes can apply for coverage, for example, schoolgirls, trainees, and students, women receiving basic income support or social benefits, or women in the asylum process. Important: The application must be submitted to the health insurance company before the procedure.
Which counselling centers are there in Bremen?
- Pro Familia Bremen and Pro Familia Bremen-North
are recognized pregnancy conflict counseling centers in accordance with the Pregnancy and Family Assistance Act (SFHG). Counseling is free of charge, and the legally required counseling certificate will be issued. Short-notice appointments can be arranged by phone at 0421 340 60 30 (Bremen-Mitte) or 0421 65 43 33 (Bremen-Nord), or in person at the counseling centers in Bremen. Further information - Bremen Protestant Church's
Family and Life Counseling Center, as a recognized pregnancy conflict counseling center, issues the legally required certificate of counseling. We provide counseling in accordance with Section 219 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) and the Pregnancy Conflict Act (SchKG) in cases of pregnancy conflict and after an abortion. You can schedule an appointment immediately by calling the following numbers: 0421 333 563 (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 10:00-12:30, Tue 14:00-17:00) or 0421 333 56 50 (Mon, Wed, Fri 11:00-12:30, Tue 14:00-15:30). Further information - Cara – Counseling Center for Pregnancy, Prenatal Diagnostics, and Pregnancy Conflicts.
State-recognized pregnancy counseling center specializing in prenatal diagnostics and confidential birth counseling in the state of Bremen. Counseling in cases of unwanted pregnancy according to §219 of the German Criminal Code. Further information - Gynecologists in Bremen:
Some gynecologists in private practices are also recognized as counseling centers: Overview of gynecologists recognized as counseling centers
Remember: No woman has to face this situation alone. Take advantage of the counseling services available! If you have further questions or need more information, you can find details here, including information about counseling sessions, confidentiality, cost coverage, medical care, and abortion methods:
