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Facing an unplanned pregnancy – particularly when pregnant in college – can be stressful. You are working on your degree. You are considering your future and pursuing your career goals. You were not expecting to become pregnant at this moment in your life. It is understandable to be overwhelmed. The good news is that you have options. You can make a choice that best fits your needs and your life. Best of all: You do not have to face this alone.
As you absorb the news of your pregnancy, take a moment to breathe. It is easy to fall into a spiral of anxiety and nerves, but it is best to take this one step at a time. If you are pregnant in college and you are unsure of what to do, read on. In this short guide, we will highlight the options, resources, and paths to consider during this challenging time.
First, Confirm & Take Care
Before making any major life decisions, you should first confirm the pregnancy. At-home pregnancy tests are reliable today, but it should also be confirmed by a medical professional, such as a midwife or doctor. Your college may have a health clinic to do this. Make an appointment as soon as you can. While you wait for your appointment, focus on your health.
Take care of yourself physically with the following healthy habits:
- Get plenty of rest
- Start taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid
- Eat a balanced diet. Bonus tip: snacking between meals can help curb morning sickness
- Continue light/gentle exercise sessions, such as walking
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Find a family member or close friend you can confide in. If your school offers counseling, speak to a professional on campus – either via telehealth or in person. If the birth father is in your life, and you feel that you can trust him, consider telling him the news. Talking about your unplanned pregnancy may be difficult, but it can help alleviate the burden you are carrying and help you feel less alone.
Know Your Rights and Talk to Your School
Unplanned pregnancy does not have to derail your college career. Did you know that, as someone pregnant in college, you are protected by Title IX? This federally recognized civil rights law prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions. Colleges and universities must allow excused absences for medical necessity, allow reinstatement to the same academic status, and provide reasonable accommodations – such as restroom breaks, elevator access, and even larger desks, as needed.
Your school’s dean or counselors can also help you create a plan that meets your needs, depending on your program and pregnancy decision. Communication and self-advocacy are key to continuing your education, regardless of your choice surrounding this pregnancy.
Options if You’re Pregnant in College
You may be completely stunned right now and feel like your life has been flipped upside down, but an unplanned pregnancy does not mean it is the end of the world. You can make a positive decision that makes the most sense for you, your baby, and your future. You can choose from the following options:
Before considering these options, know that – for each – there are resources to help. If you are considering parenthood, you should know that your life will change drastically. You will need to consider childcare costs, housing, and other living expenses. How will you support your growing family? Will you be able to complete your degree? There are support groups in which to turn, but parenthood can be a long and difficult journey for those unprepared.
Abortion may be banned in your state, but it is possible to travel to another state. This can be a costly endeavor, but there are networks that help expectant mothers travel and obtain a safe, legal abortion.
Adoption can be a positive, thoughtful, loving decision. With the support of a private adoption agency, you can get the supportive services you need for every step of the adoption journey. This includes financial assistance, free counseling and legal services, help design your adoption plan, and ongoing support after the adoption is complete. Many adoptions today are open adoptions, meaning there is ongoing communication between birth and adoptive families. This means you can know how your baby grow over the years – while building relationships with your child and their parents – all while continuing to pursue your personal and professional goals.
There is no right or wrong decision when it comes to your pregnancy. This is a highly personal choice. You are the only one who can make this decision, but there are resources out there to help you along the way.
Connect With a Recognized Adoption Agency
As you consider your options, rest assured that you can take responsibility for this pregnancy and make the decision that meets your needs. This is your choice. If you want to learn more about adoption, you can get commitment-free information from Adoptions With Love at any time. Call (24/7) 617-964-4357, text (confidentially) 617-777-0072, or contact us online. We can help guide you through the adoption journey with love, respect, and understanding.