The Journal
Sharing knowledge and experiences from the world of birth support.
The Journal
The Birth & Mother Journal was founded to build community and make pregnancy and birth in Germany more accessible for international families. Navigating the German maternity system in a new language and culture can feel overwhelming, and the Journal is here to bridge that gap.
Through shared stories, practical guidance, and honest conversation, this space is for every family finding their way through pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood in Germany, so that no one has to do it alone.
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A doula provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after birth. Here is what that really looks like, and why the evidence says it matters.
Emma
July 2, 2026
Why this site exists: honest, English-language guidance for international families navigating pregnancy, birth, and early motherhood in Germany.
Emma
July 5, 2026
The German tradition of the Wochenbett offers a beautiful framework for postpartum rest and recovery. Discover what it looks like with your midwife, and how doula care can deepen it with guided rituals, emotional support, and comprehensive nourishment for body and soul.
Emma
July 8, 2026
Preparing for birth far from family is one of the hardest parts of expat life. Discover how to build a chosen village of support in Potsdam, and why you don’t have to do this alone.
Emma
July 11, 2026
The German midwife system is unique and wonderful, but it has limits. Understand the clinical role of your Hebamme and how doula care beautifully complements it.
A journal entry on its way · coming August 28
Hospital, birth centre, or home birth? Explore the options available to you in Germany and discover how to choose the setting that feels right for your birth story.
A journal entry on its way · coming September 4
From your Mutterpass to finding a Hebamme, hospital registration, and understanding your Krankenkasse coverage: a practical guide to the German maternity care system for international families in Potsdam and Berlin-Brandenburg.
A journal entry on its way · coming September 11
So little of what is written about birth is written for partners. A practical, honest guide to supporting her through labour: what to do with your hands, your voice, and yourself.
A journal entry on its way · coming September 18
Elternzeit, Kindergeld, Rückbildung, U-Untersuchungen: Germany has an incredible support system for new families. Here’s what international parents need to know about the first 12 weeks after birth.
A journal entry on its way · coming September 25
A walkthrough of every U-Untersuchung from U1 to U9: what the paediatrician is looking for at each visit, what questions to ask, and which vaccinations usually fall around each appointment.
A journal entry on its way · coming October 2
A practical, step-by-step guide to the paperwork that comes with a new baby in Germany. What the Standesamt needs, how to book the U-Untersuchungen, and how to apply for Kindergeld, Elterngeld, and Krankenkasse registration without losing your mind.
A journal entry on its way · coming October 9
