17 Sep What Do I Need to Know if I Am Pregnant in College?
An unexpected pregnancy can make you question how to navigate your college years. Between exams, papers, and now weighing pregnancy options, this time can feel stressful.
However, you aren’t alone. Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center supports you with no-cost services and ongoing support. You may be in school, but you can gain clarity, make an informed decision, and continue your education.
Continue reading to learn more about the fundamentals of being pregnant in school. You can also schedule a confidential appointment with us to learn more.
You Can Still Finish Your Education
You may have many questions when you learn you are pregnant.
What are my options? Will I be able to stay in school? Will my college be supportive?
It’s understandable if you feel anxious, but the law is on your side. Title IX is a federal civil rights law prohibiting pregnancy and parenting-related discrimination (among other forms) at colleges or universities receiving federal funds.
Title IX states that your school must:
- Allow you to continue participating in classes and extracurricular activities
- Allow you to participate in these things without a doctor’s note (unless the school requires a note from all students treated for physical or emotional conditions)
- Provide you with reasonable adjustments (i.e., more frequent restroom trips, elevator access) because of your pregnancy
- Not require a doctor’s note for hospitalization after childbirth (unless the school requires a note from all students hospitalized for physical or emotional conditions)
- Provide excused absences for pregnancy and childbirth
These are just some examples of how you are protected by law. Remember, you can continue your education and have the legal right to do so.
Find a Strong Support System
Everyone deserves support during an unexpected pregnancy. However, this support may feel more challenging to find while in college.
Whether your parents disapprove of your pregnancy or you worry about judgment or questions from classmates, this time can be difficult. However, you aren’t alone.
Find a solid support system that won’t pressure you to make a specific decision but instead supports your educational journey and believes in you.
Lean on loved ones, such as family and friends, who are committed to being in your corner. As you weigh your options and start to plan for the future, they will be the ones to offer a shoulder to cry on, extra help, and a reassuring presence.
If you are overwhelmed by your situation, know that people are here to support you. We offer non-judgmental information and pregnancy services so you can move forward knowing that people are in your corner.
Learn Your Options and Determine Next Steps
After medically confirming your pregnancy with pregnancy testing and ultrasound, you’ll know whether your pregnancy is progressing, where it is located, and how far along you are. You need these details to clarify the pregnancy options available and protect your health.
We’ll help you understand your options. By discussing parenting, adoption, and abortion in a loving, pressure-free environment, you’ll learn the facts and make an informed decision.
This options counsel session will help you find a path forward. This is your decision, and you alone can make it.
Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center is here for you. Schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment today.
Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center does not provide or refer for abortions.