Anyone who wishes to have a termination of pregnancy is usually required to attend this kind of counselling. What can I expect? What do I need to prepare for? Where can I even go? And whose side are the counsellors on? You will find all the information about this special form of counselling here.
Basic Information on Pregnancy Option Counselling
Before a termination of pregnancy within the first twelve weeks, pregnancy option counselling is generally mandatory. Which topics you wish to discuss is your free decision. The counselling is free of charge. All counsellors are bound by confidentiality. We do not pass anything on to parents or partners. You can come alone or bring a trusted person. You can also come to a counselling centre more than once. If needed, counselling with an interpreter is possible – the costs are covered by the counselling centre. You can use the counselling to reach a good decision. You can also decide before or after the counselling session.
The Legal Framework – When Is a Termination of Pregnancy Permitted?
Terminations of pregnancy in Germany are only possible within certain statutory regulations. The requirements are as follows:
- The termination may only be carried out at the request of the pregnant person and only by medical professionals.
- A pregnancy resulting from rape may be terminated within the first twelve weeks after fertilisation. A certificate is required. This is called a criminological indication.
- If a pregnancy endangers the physical or mental health of the pregnant person, it may be terminated at any time. Medical confirmation is required. This is referred to as a medical indication.
- If the pregnancy is to be terminated for other reasons, this is possible within the first twelve weeks after fertilisation. The pregnant person must attend the pregnancy option counselling described here and will receive a counselling certificate. There must be a period of three days between counselling and the termination.
State Mandate of Pregnancy Option Counselling
AWO pregnancy counselling centres are legally recognised counselling centres in accordance with § 219 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) and § 5 of the Pregnancy Option Act (SchKG). If you wish to have a termination, you need a counselling certificate from such a state-recognised counselling centre. AWO pregnancy counselling centres always issue a counselling certificate. There are also other counselling centres that do not issue a counselling certificate – ask about this when making an appointment if necessary.
On the familienplanung.de website of the Federal Institute for Public Health (BIÖG), you can find all state-recognised counselling centres.
The state counselling mandate is not without contradictions. The counselling is meant to be outcome-neutral, while at the same time ‘protecting unborn life’. We create space for your questions and concerns and stand behind your right to self-determination. On request, we advise on support services for families that can make life with a child easier. At the same time, we support you within the legal framework in your individual decision for or against continuing a pregnancy.
How Pregnancy Option Counselling Works
In the counselling session, you can talk about your reasons for a termination. If you do not wish to speak about your decision, that is equally fine. You do not have to justify yourself. If you wish, we can support you in your decision-making. If you have doubts or questions, we will give you the necessary information. After the counselling session, you will regardless of the discussed issues receive a counselling certificate from us, which is the prerequisite for a termination of pregnancy that is exempt from criminal prosecution.
We also answer questions about cost coverage, abortion methods and the process of a termination. You can also arrange further appointments with us. We will accompany you if you wish and if it is helpful to you.
“Excellent counselling. No attempt to talk me out of my decision or to judge me for it. I felt very safe and understood.”
What Pregnancy Option Counselling Can Offer
In conversation, you can order your thoughts and obtain information on various options. You will find answers to the questions that are personally most important to you. Counselling often also facilitates communication as a couple. We cannot make the decision for you. But the counselling certificate gives you the freedom to make and implement your own decision.
Still have questions?
We are happy to advise you in person. Anonymous and free of charge. Respectful and empowering.