[The situation of pregnant and breastfeeding veterinarians in Germany - a qualitative study]

This study examined the implementation of the Maternity Protection Act for female veterinarians in Germany and analyzed the psychosocial and professional consequences of employment bans, as well as the lack of legal regulations for self-employed women.

Through qualitative, problem-centered interviews, 14 female veterinarians from 5 different professional fields were interviewed about their professional experiences regarding pregnancy and breastfeeding. The interview transcripts were transferred into MAXQDA software for qualitative data analysis and analyzed using Philipp Mayring's qualitative content analysis approach.

Satisfaction with the implementation of the Maternity Protection Act largely depended on the degree of involvement in task allocation. All 8 veterinarians working in curative practice and at slaughterhouses were subject to an absolute occupation ban. Despite early discussions with employers about family planning, the workplace was usually not adapted, as the risks and costs were seen as too high. This often led to negative changes in inter-collegial relationships and a sense of alienation from the profession. Of the 12 veterinarians previously employed in curative practice, all expressed doubts about the compatibility of family and career due to poor working conditions. Seven of them changed their professional field as a result. Female employers reported feeling inadequately advised and uncertain about their responsibilities. Self-employed veterinarians often worked until shortly before birth and resumed work early during the postpartum period, which was perceived as highly stressful.

The focus of this study was on self-determined continuation of work and, alternatively, the necessity for exit strategies. The resulting loss of contact with animals severely damages professional identity. Furthermore, highly qualified women with family aspirations are restricted in their careers and self-determination, despite possessing strong self-protection skills. The strict implementation of maternity protection ("zero-risk policy") forces qualified women out of the profession, while employers have little support or alternative solutions. This is especially problematic in light of the ongoing skilled labor shortage.