The mothers who work in Germany benefit from the Maternity Protection Act. The Act applies to all working women, irrespective of their nationality and marital status. Special protection was laid down for women from six weeks before to eight weeks after delivery. During this period the mother-to-be is prohibited to work (with the exception of six weeks before delivery when she may work if she formally states such an intention) and she is protected from loss of employment due to dismissal. During this period the mother receives the Maternity Allowance.