Can You Be Pregnant in College?
Getting pregnant in college can be stressful and scary. You’re already juggling countless responsibilities and are now facing one of the biggest choices of your life. You may be wondering how you can make it through finals week, let alone to graduation day.
Take a deep breath and let it out slowly. HPRC is here to help! Keep reading to learn more about your rights and the resources available to you as a pregnant college student!
What is Title IX? What are my Rights as a Pregnant College Student?
Title IX is a law that protects pregnant students from discrimination[1]. It gives students access to accommodations and resources throughout their pregnancy. Any school that receives federal funds is required to comply with Title IX.
Are There Accommodations for Pregnant Students?
Under Title IX, pregnant students are entitled to elevator access and larger desks. Your professors and coaches must also:
Allow you to make frequent trips to the restroom as needed
Allow you to make up the work or exams you missed due to pregnancy and childbirth
Excuse absences related to your pregnancy and childbirth
Can I Participate in Sports During my Pregnancy?
Yes! Title IX enables you to continue participating in sports and other extracurricular activities while pregnant. Of course, you need to consider if it’s safe for you to play certain sports during your pregnancy. However, the decision to continue playing (or not) is between you and your doctor. Your coach and professors can’t force you to sit out of any activities.
Can I Stay in My Dorm During My Pregnancy?
You can stay in your dorm while pregnant. In fact, it’s illegal to kick pregnant students out of their dorms! If someone is trying to kick you out due to your pregnancy, contact your campus Title IX coordinator! They will help you stand up against any discrimination you may be facing and keep you informed of your rights.
Are there Scholarships for Pregnant Students?
Yes! There are many scholarships available for pregnant students[2]. Unlike loans, they don’t need to be paid back after graduation!
Can I Lose My Scholarships Because of My Pregnancy?
No! Under Title IX and the NCAA Model Pregnancy and Parenting Policy, you can’t lose your scholarships because of your pregnancy[3]. As long as you keep your grades up and don’t drop out, you can keep all of the scholarships you received before getting pregnant.
Support for Pregnant Students in Huntsville, AL
Pregnancy may not have been part of your plan, but it doesn’t have to derail your future! HPRC is here to help, from your first pregnancy test to the day you walk the stage! Our center is a safe place to explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make an informed and empowered decision!
Call us at (256) 533-3526 or book your free appointment today!
Sources
US Department of Education. (2020, January 10). Pregnant or Parenting? Title IX Protects You From Discrimination At School. Ed.gov. Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/dcl-know-rights-201306-title-ix.html
College Grants & Scholarships for Pregnant Women. Scholarships for Women. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.scholarshipsforwomen.net/pregnant/
A Review of Federal Law and NCAA Rules Impacting Treatment of Pregnant and Parenting Student-Athletes. NCAA.org. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://s3.amazonaws.com/ncaa.org/documents/2021/1/18/Model_Policy_Legal_Review.pdf