For this reason, female students will also be included in the scope of application of the Maternity Protection Act in future, insofar as the respective educational institution (here: the OTH Regensburg) stipulates the location, time and schedule of educational events or the students complete a mandatory internship as part of their university education. According to the explanatory memorandum to the law, the maternity protection regulations apply to courses, examination situations and internships that are mandatory as part of university education. As of January 1, 2018, pregnant students are required to notify OTH Regensburg of their pregnancy (see "Notification of pregnancy" form). The law thus protects the health of the woman and her child at the place of study during pregnancy, after childbirth and during the breastfeeding period. It also ensures that the woman can continue her studies during this time without endangering her health or that of her child and prevents disadvantages during this time (e.g. due to missed examinations). However, pregnant students have the option of not taking maternity leave (6 weeks before and 8 weeks after giving birth). In addition, the law provides for an immediate risk assessment in order to determine appropriate protective measures if necessary. The risk assessment (in accordance with MuSchArbV, GefStoffV, GenTSV) is carried out by the deans. Special protection has also been in place for breastfeeding students since January 1, 2018. Students are required to register with the Family Office in order to assert this entitlement.
