Overview
- Assessors for statutory insurers say so‑called baby‑watching scans are still frequently offered for a fee in gynecology practices, according to remarks reported by RND and cited by MDR.
- Since 2021, Germany has prohibited prenatal ultrasound for non‑medical purposes, framing the fetus as a protected person who cannot consent to procedures without clinical benefit.
- Professional ultrasound societies report no demonstrated side effects at diagnostic energy levels, stating that examinations of pregnant women and children are considered risk‑free.
- Statutory health insurers typically reimburse three routine pregnancy ultrasounds, with additional scans covered only when there is a medical indication.
- Out‑of‑pocket Individual Health Services remain a large market, estimated at least €2.4 billion annually, including offerings such as ovarian ultrasound for screening and PSA tests without specific suspicion.