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Yes, you can go to college with a newborn! Going to university with a new baby takes dedication and careful planning, but many mothers find it rewarding. It’s entirely possible to pursue your academic goals while nurturing your little one.
When deciding whether to attend college classes with a newborn at home, there are many factors to consider. In this post we’ll explore the vital role of a support system, our best tips for going to school with a newborn, some common challenges you might experience and how to overcome them, and when you might consider taking a semester off. Getting Support A good support system can make even the most overwhelming tasks feel simple and doable. Everyone’s support system looks a little different, and there’s not just one right way to ask for help! You might rely on your family, friends, teachers, babysitters, neighbors, doctors, or even non-profit organizations in different ways while caring for a newborn. No matter who’s there for you during this time, be sure to communicate clearly about scheduling, needs, and baby’s habits to avoid resentment. A little communication and intentionality can go a long way to avoid misunderstandings. Many new moms find it helpful to have someone watch their baby during classes or while studying. Additionally, getting help with daily chores can also give you a little more energy each day to focus on your schoolwork and your newborn. Non-profit organizations that specialize in helping new moms succeed in college can offer a variety of financial, material, and emotional support. Our team at The Avi Project designed a proven program to walk with students through the uncertainty of unexpected pregnancy. We provide tuition assistance, career counseling, baby food and clothing, and most importantly - compassion and understanding. If you’re a student in Colorado facing unplanned pregnancy, call or text us at 720-386-6009 for free and confidential counseling. Tips For Going To School With A Newborn Here are our best tips for going to college with a newborn baby. It’s important to find what works for your unique situation - don’t worry if it takes some trial and error to get into a new routine.
Challenges You might have heard of “the 4th trimester,” which refers to the first twelve weeks after giving birth. During these early months, babies require constant attention, relying on their caregivers to meet their every need, making this time crucial for bonding. New moms are also recovering from birth and possibly surgery, going through hormone shifts, learning how to breastfeed or bottle feed, and adjusting to a new life of parenthood. If this is your first child, then parenthood is a completely new part of your life, and it’s natural to need time to adjust to this change. During those first three months, it’s common for moms to feel overwhelmed. If you experience unexpected medical complications or have a c-section, recovery may take longer than anticipated. Remember that your well-being and your baby’s health always come first! Some mothers also experience postpartum depression, which can make it more challenging to keep up with coursework. Additionally, caring for a newborn who needs to be fed every couple of hours can understandably lead to fatigue and sleep deprivation. Having a good support system in place can truly make all the difference during this special time in your life. Taking A Semester Off New moms do not have to take a semester off, but they should if they feel it’s best. If you’re uncertain what to do, consider easing back into your college curriculum after giving birth by temporarily reducing your class load. Some moms take just one or two classes, or take classes that are twice a week instead of three times a week, while they adjust to parenthood. This can help keep your momentum with school while prioritizing your well-being and mental health. Take note of the deadline for dropping classes, and be gentle with yourself if your course load ends up being too much. It may help to give your course load a try, but remain open to deferring one or all of your classes if it ends up being too much. And remember - it’s ok to aim for “good enough” right now. You don’t need to be getting A+ and extra credit while navigating this huge life change. Listen to your body and prioritize your mental health. Do What’s Best For Your Family New moms can go to college with a newborn if they want to! Life does not end with pregnancy or parenthood, and a little support and planning can go a long way. There will always be something unexpected or challenging happening in your life, and it will never be the perfect time to finish your degree. If you’re going to have a baby soon, and are wondering if you have to take a semester off… you don’t have to unless that’s what’s best for you, your baby, and your growing family.
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Many things happen when you find yourself unexpectedly pregnant in college, and several areas of your life can be impacted including your education, career, and finances. You might worry about being able to finish your degree, keep your scholarship, or pursue a career. What happens now?
A pregnancy might not have been something you planned for during college, but there are many resources available to you, organizations who want to help support you, and legal protections in place (such as Title IX). Most importantly, you do not have to be alone during this challenging time. So if you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior, take it one day at a time and ask for help when you need it. What happens after I get a positive pregnancy test? You will probably feel a lot of different emotions like shock, anxiety, or anger. It’s healthy to acknowledge those feelings. When you’re ready, there are a few simple steps you can take to start removing some of your uncertainty about the future. First, see your doctor to confirm your pregnancy with medical testing. Taking care of your health is important, no matter what you decide to do later on. It’s also a good time to lean on your support system (or build a support system) that can be there for you while you learn about your options for dealing with an unexpected pregnancy. What happens to my college classes? If you’re able to, continue attending your college classes as usual. Here are some tips for managing the demands of college during pregnancy. If you’re finding it difficult to attend your classes due to morning sickness, doctor appointments, or similar challenges, a federal law called Title IX protects parenting and pregnant college students from discrimination. Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs, and requires your college to make reasonable accommodations when necessary. These accommodations might include excused absences, flexible deadlines, or adjustments to class schedules. Pregnancy should be treated the same as any other medical condition. What happens to my plans for future semesters? In the long-term, you might wonder if you will have to take a break from college. This depends on your personal circumstances and preferences, but many women are able to continue their schooling without taking a semester off. While there are many questions to ask yourself when deciding whether to take a break from school, remember that many moms have gone through the exact same thing, and school staff are used to working with students through unexpected life changes. What happens to my financial aid? It’s a good idea to double-check the terms and conditions of any scholarships you were awarded, but generally your scholarship eligibility will not be affected by pregnancy due to Title IX laws. Additionally, you may be able to apply for more scholarships, since there are many scholarship opportunities just for moms. You may also qualify for more financial aid through programs like the FAFSA, pell grants, or state grants. What happens with my professors, classmates, friends, and family? How you want to share the news of your unexpected pregnancy is entirely up to you. Telling your professor that you’re pregnant can be helpful because then you can ask for accommodations and you’re legally protected. Your classmates may eventually notice your pregnancy, but you do not owe them any personal information. Telling your parents can be nerve-wracking, but they may also be able to offer a lot of emotional and financial support during a difficult time. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your parents, it can help to confide in a trusted friend first. Your friend can support you during conversations with others, including when you talk to your parents. What happens to my sorority membership? If you’re a member of a sorority, check the by-laws to see if there are any rules regarding pregnancy and motherhood. Your sorority leaders should also be able to offer compassionate guidance. You may want to consider whether sorority life is something you still want to give your time to as well, since it can be very demanding. Prioritizing self-care during this time can help you maintain a positive outlook on the future. What happens to my sports scholarship? The NCAA says that athletic awards cannot be withdrawn due to pregnancy. While a student athlete may withdraw voluntarily, they can not be forced to quit. Pregnant student athletes are protected by the same bylaws that protect injured student athletes. What happens to my career? You have not ruined your chances of having a successful career. Have hope - your career is not over before it could begin! Your future is filled with opportunities, and an unexpected life change doesn't diminish your potential or worth. Your achievements and all of your efforts speak for themselves. If you’re a college student facing an unplanned pregnancy, it’s natural to feel nervous. When deciding what to do next, be sure to gather all the information so you can make an informed decision. There is probably more support available to you than you know! You do not need to feel like you don’t have any options. With the right financial, medical, and emotional support, you have so much freedom to choose whatever is best for you and your baby. For students located in Colorado, our team at The Avi Project is available 24/7 to talk through your situation, help identify your options, and make a plan. Call or text 720-386-6009. Deciding how to announce an unplanned pregnancy can be difficult. It can be even more nerve-wracking if you’re a college student or a single parent. It’s okay to be nervous about how people will react to the news, but you don’t have to let it stop you from seeking the support you need.
Worries about nosy questions and judgemental comments can take away a lot of your peace during a time when you need extra compassion and understanding. Maybe you’re also concerned that parents or other family members will try to make decisions for you, or give you unsolicited advice. There are a few ways to prepare for these kinds of unhelpful reactions, and redirect the focus to what’s best for you and your baby. First, Prepare To Announce An Unexpected Pregnancy Take some time to reflect on why you might want to tell people about your unexpected pregnancy, and what you’re hoping to achieve with these conversations.
There can be many good reasons to announce your unplanned pregnancy, but understanding your reasons can help you decide who to tell, when, and how. It’s important to think about who might be able to offer you the type of support you’re looking for, and who might not. Keep in mind that many women have announced an unplanned pregnancy before you, and have been surprised by warmth and acceptance when they were afraid of rejection. Do You Still Want To Tell Them? After getting a better understanding of why you want to share your news, you might realize that there are some people who will not be willing or able to offer you the support you need. Or, maybe you’ll decide to share the news privately with close friends and family instead of announcing it on social media. There may be people in your life that you choose to tell at a later time, and that’s ok. Who Should You Tell First? Consider announcing the pregnancy to whoever is the most stabilizing force in your life, first. For example, it may be helpful to tell a close friend about your pregnancy before your parents. Or maybe you should tell your parents before telling your partner, depending on how healthy your relationship is. Someone who is calm and reassuring can be there for you through difficult conversations, and help advocate for you. They may be able to help you break the news to other friends and family. If you’re still not sure who to tell first, consider reaching out to a non-profit that specializes in unplanned pregnancy care. Our team at Avi Project is dedicated to helping pregnant college students navigate these kinds of difficult conversations and decisions. Becoming unexpectedly pregnant doesn't change the fact that you have hopes and dreams for the future. We're here to help in providing the support you need. Call or text 720-386-6009, completely confidentially, and commitment-free. We’re available 24/7. How Long Should You Wait To Announce Pregnancy? It’s common to wait three months before announcing a pregnancy, because the risk of miscarriage can decrease significantly after the first trimester. However, there are many reasons why some women announce sooner or wait until later. These reasons can include:
For example, some employees may share the news with their manager early so their team is able to plan for maternity leave. Other employees may wait to share the news if trust with their managers is low. Or if you’re needing a flexible schedule to accommodate doctor appointments and morning sickness, it can make sense to explain why your needs have changed. There are also many legal protections for pregnant mothers at school and in the workplace. Remember, there isn’t a perfect time to share the news of an unexpected pregnancy, and this is a personal decision that depends on your unique situation and preferences. How To Announce Pregnancy When You’re In College If you’re wondering how to announce your pregnancy to your parents, classmates, or professors, you’re not alone. Many students have asked the same questions. While you weigh the pros and cons of sharing this news, you should consider the legal protections that are available to students through Title IX, as well as the many opportunities for financial aid. Telling your parents that you’re pregnant in college can be especially difficult, which is why we wrote a separate guide just for this. How To Announce Pregnancy When You’re Single It’s important to stay positive when making your pregnancy announcement. This will set the tone for how people react to your news. It’s also important to set boundaries with what you’re willing to share, and what you would like to keep private. You shouldn’t feel obligated to explain why you’re single or where the father is. Hopefully you have a couple of confidantes who understand what you’re going through, but not everyone has a right to your personal information. What To Say If Someone Asks A Rude Question If you’re worried about getting rude comments or personal questions, it can help to know how to respond before starting a conversation. Although some people might intend to hurt your feelings, often, people don’t realize they are being insensitive or overbearing. Here are a few examples of replies you might use to protect your boundaries and diffuse a tense situation:
How To Announce An Unplanned Pregnancy On Social Media You do not have to announce your pregnancy on social media if you don’t want to! But if you would like to share your news on Facebook, Instagram, or other social sites, here are a few ideas: "We have some unexpected news to share: we're excited to announce that our family is growing! While this was a surprise, we are embracing this new chapter with love and joy. Thank you for your support and understanding as we navigate this unexpected but beautiful journey." "Sometimes life takes us on unexpected journeys. I’m thrilled to share that I’m embarking on the greatest adventure of all: becoming a parent! While this news was a surprise, I'm filled with hope and excitement for the future. Your support and love are appreciated as I step into this new role.” "Life has brought me an unexpected but beautiful surprise: I’m going to be a parent. This news came as a shock, but I’m choosing to embrace it with love and hope. Your understanding and support mean so much to me as I prepare for this new chapter in my life.” Announcing your pregnancy on social media can help you avoid awkwardness in the future. It can also be a relief to share your exciting news and celebrate your baby for the gift that he or she is! There are many financial aid options available to pregnant students and single moms who are excited to continue their college education. If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy while in college, you might be wondering if you can afford to continue higher education. The good news is that with tuition assistance and other financial aid programs, if you want to finish your degree - you can! Learn more about scholarships, tuition assistance, FAFSA, charitable organizations, government programs, and other ways to reduce both cost of tuition and cost of living.
Financial Aid for Pregnant Students & Single Moms There are organizations and financial aid programs exclusively dedicated to helping pregnant students and single mothers graduate from college. This means that if you’re a mom in school, you have access to scholarships just for mothers and financial assistance opportunities that go way beyond tuition. A mother’s education level can have a significant impact on her and her family’s happiness and safety. College degrees can positively affect level of income, job security, emotional and mental wellbeing, the lifelong health of a mother and her children, and more. Many people recognize the positive influence of higher education on women, and they want to help moms chase their educational dreams. Our team at The Avi Project provides students with tuition assistance and financial stability, but there are many complementary programs worth exploring as well. Scholarships for Pregnant Students One type of financial aid available for pregnant students and moms in school is the scholarship. These scholarships are specifically for mothers, single parents, and women who are financially supporting their families. There are dozens more scholarships out there - and new ones all the time - so please reach out to our team (720-386-6009) if you’d like help finding more opportunities. Scholarships 4 Moms This program was created by moms, for moms. They understand the importance of financial security for pregnant students in college. Scholarships 4 Moms gives away scholarships of up to $10,000 several times a year. Winners may use the scholarship at any school of their choice, and may choose to view additional offers from schools if interested. Live Your Dream Live Your Dream Awards, which are funded through Soroptomist, are gifted to women who are the primary financial support for their families. Recipients are frequently women who have faced unexpected teen pregnancy, poverty, addiction, assault, violence, or trafficking. Awards may amount up to $16,000, and may be applied to a variety of costs - not just tuition. Patsy Mink Scholarship for Low-Income Women Moms pursuing their first degree may apply to the Patsy Mink Scholarship. Awards are up to $5000 each, and awardees are selected based on several factors, including financial need and vocational goals. Single Parent Scholarship in Colorado Single parents studying at either Aims Community College or the University of Northern Colorado are welcome to apply for a scholarship. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. If you currently have scholarships, you might be wondering if you could lose them. It depends on the terms and conditions of your particular scholarship, but there are many protections for pregnant students under Title IX. Tuition Assistance for College Students Make sure you’ve explored the general financial aid options that are available to all eligible college students. These include federal student financial aid and Pell Grants, state student financial aid, tuition reimbursement and assistance programs from employers, and student work-study positions. To apply for federal student financial aid, Pell Grants, and state grants, you’ll need to fill out the FAFSA. Ask your student financial aid office or academic advisor about the FAFSA, and consider using an online resource that guides you through the process of filling out the forms. You may have one of these common questions about the FAFSA:
Food, Medical & Housing Financial Assistance Tuition might be the first cost that comes to mind when you think about college, but reducing your cost of living can also make it easier to fund a college education. Even students need to eat, see doctors, and have a safe place to live! Consider taking advantage of additional financial assistance from charitable organizations and government programs. The Avi Project The Avi Project helps pregnant students cover the costs of tuition, medical care, housing, counseling, food, and more. If you’re facing financial uncertainty, call or text us at 720-386-6009 to learn more about the resources available to you. It’s confidential and commitment-free. We believe that meeting your financial needs is important, and we want to help. Government Programs Government programs that you may qualify for as a pregnant college student include:
We work with pregnant college students every day, so we know how heavily financial worries can weigh on a woman in this situation. At The Avi Project, we believe that students facing unplanned pregnancy shouldn’t have to throw away their educational goals or their career plans. You deserve financial security and a bright future. Please call or text us at (720) 386-6009 if you have questions about scholarships, grants, housing assistance, or other financial aid opportunities. If you become unexpectedly pregnant in college, should you take a semester off of school? The answer depends on your unique situation and personal preferences. You should consider your health, emotional well-being, support system, and academic goals when making this decision. Some women may want to take a semester away from college, and other women find that reasonable accommodations provide plenty of flexibility.
It’s normal to worry about your future. It’s normal to worry about your academic goals and professional career. Let’s talk about how to stay on track. First, if you’re wondering whether you should take a semester off of college, talk to your academic advisor. You won’t be the first student to ask this question, or the last! Your professors and academic advisors have worked with students in similar situations before, and they probably have suggestions for the best course of action based on their experience. Consider asking your professor whether they would agree to let you complete coursework early or work on a modified schedule. If the administrative staff or your professors agree to accommodate you, be sure to get it in writing. Usually a follow-up email is an easy way to do this. If you have a scholarship or are receiving financial aid, it’s a good idea to review the terms and conditions. Check whether there’s a requirement for the minimum amount of credits you have to take each semester. Also find out if there’s a minimum GPA requirement, and see if you have wiggle room. Specific degrees and programs may have unique requirements as well:
Your health will play a large role in making this decision as well:
Luckily, there are several ways to strategize your school schedule. You could register for classes, and take note of the final withdrawal deadline just in case you change your mind. You could take classes part-time to give yourself more time for other obligations, but also keep the momentum going. Many expectant mothers do courses online instead of in-person to save time on commuting and to have more flexibility for doctor’s appointments, work schedules, or getting extra rest. You also have a right to reasonable accommodations. Title IX is a federal law that protects pregnant students from discrimination. According to Title IX, pregnancy should be given the same allowances and accommodations as any other medical condition. This may include extensions for medical reasons, maternity leave, and even flexibility in cases of early labor. If you believe you are facing discrimination due to your pregnancy, you should report it to your college's Title IX coordinator or designated official. Deciding whether to take a semester away from school is difficult to do. Uncertainty makes it hard to plan your future and can cause a lot of anxiety. But remember that there are many, many moms who have gone through the same thing, and you don’t have to drop out of college if you don’t want to. The best thing you can do for yourself is to make sure you have a solid support system to help you through these decisions and be there for you on the other side of them. There are so many organizations and programs that are dedicated to helping moms stay in school, graduate, and pursue the career of their dreams. If you’re unexpectedly pregnant in college and not sure what to do, our compassionate team is available 24/7 to talk with you. It’s completely free and confidential, with no obligation. Our mission is to take the fear out of college pregnancy. Call or text us today at 720-386-6009, so we can talk about how to get you the emotional, physical, and financial support you need. There aren’t many things as nerve-wracking as telling your parents you’re pregnant when you’re a college student. Sometimes, just starting the conversation is the hardest part.
You might be embarrassed to say it out loud. “Mom, dad, I’m pregnant.” You might be scared of how your parents will react. Will they be angry? Will they still accept me? Will they be disappointed in me? You might even be worried about financial repercussions. Will my parents stop helping me with tuition? How will I pay for room and board without my parents’ help? No matter how nervous you are, you can get through this. We help young women work through situations just like this, and we have some tips on how to handle these difficult conversations. Here’s your guide to telling your parents you’re unexpectedly pregnant. Take care of yourself first. Give yourself some time to process this news on your own. Trying to tell your parents you’re pregnant an hour after you found out probably won’t lead to a calm, constructive conversation. This news can be a major shock, and it’s ok if you want to take a few days to let it sink in. It can be very helpful to schedule an appointment with your doctor to make sure you are pregnant, and have a discussion with a medical professional before getting family members involved. They may want to do a blood test or an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy. While you wait for your appointment, journaling might help you process this life-changing news. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Get your partner’s support. Once you’re able to, consider talking to your partner. If you’re comfortable talking to them about your pregnancy, it can be helpful to have their support when you tell your family the news. If you don’t feel safe talking to your partner, or you haven’t confirmed paternity yet, it can be helpful to talk to a sibling, a good friend, or a counselor first. Get ready for the big talk. When you’re ready to talk to your parents, find a good time to talk with them. It might feel like there will never be a good time to tell them you’re pregnant, but remember that you’ll probably feel a sense of relief when it’s over. It can take a lot of energy to keep something like this a secret, and your family might be more supportive than you expect. If you want to, practice telling your parents by telling a friend first. Think of what questions they might ask, and what you might want to say to them. They will probably want to know a few things:
If you begin to feel too anxious or overwhelmed, it might help to do some mindfulness exercises and refocus on the present. This can be as simple as doing box breaths: inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, exhale for four counts, and hold for four counts. You will get through this! What to say to your parents. If you still feel lost for words, here are a few ideas for how to tell your parents you’re pregnant:
Don’t feel pressured to find the perfect words. There’s no perfect way to say this. Just be honest, do your best, and lean on your support system - no matter how your parents react. If you need to build up your support system, there are support groups, online forums, and even counseling available. There are many other students out there going through the same thing you are, and they will understand. No one has to go through this alone, and having a solid support system will help you feel empowered to navigate this chapter of your life. Make sure you also have a plan for ending the conversation if it’s too much. Your family might want to start making plans immediately, but making decisions when everyone is upset can make the situation worse. Let them know that you want to talk about it again soon, but for now, you have to step away. You might even tell them how you feel - that you’re at least as scared as they are. If you do need to cut the conversation short, it doesn’t mean you failed. It just means that this was big news that no one expected, and everyone has to process it in their own way. In a few days, your parents might be easier to talk to, and they might be more willing to help. What now? If you’re still unsure of how to move forward or how to break the news to your parents, please call or text us at any time. We’re available 24/7 at (720) 386-6009. It’s completely confidential, with no obligations, and it’s free. Our team has helped other students navigate this journey, and we want to help you too. We can also connect you with scholarships, housing, and other financial resources, so if you were relying on your parents for financial support, know that you have options. Navigating the college admissions process with a baby on the way? Let's dive into your concerns and answer some important questions. Facing an unplanned pregnancy is nerve-wracking, and so is starting college. Going through both of these challenges at the same time can cause some unique worries.
If you've been anticipating college and now find yourself unexpectedly pregnant, you're likely grappling with a bunch of questions. If you haven’t applied yet, you might wonder if you still should. Do colleges accept applications from pregnant students? And if you have already applied, you might wonder whether colleges can reject your application because of your pregnancy. Luckily, there are protections in place for pregnant students (and students-to-be) that prevent discrimination based on sex. Title IX is a US federal law that states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance[.]” Discrimination based on pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions would be discrimination based on sex. Can schools reject me because I’m pregnant? In most cases, it’s illegal to reject an application due to pregnancy, and it’s not something that students need to worry about. However, some private schools do not accept federal funding, and in those cases, they may not have to abide by Title IX. Some private schools are also affiliated with religious organizations and may have policies regarding pregnancy. If I already have an offer can they rescind it? Yes, colleges can revoke their offer. However, generally they cannot revoke their offers on the basis of pregnancy, as this would be a violation of Title IX law. Common reasons why schools may reject a student include:
Can I lose my scholarships because I got pregnant? We have good news! Pregnancy may qualify you for additional scholarships. There are many people and organizations who want to see moms pursue their educational dreams and build amazing careers, and they’re here to support you financially while you do it. In addition to qualifying you for scholarships specifically for mothers, pregnancy may also increase the amount of financial aid you’re eligible for. Be sure to reach out to your financial aid office to learn more. Can I live in dorms if I’m pregnant? Yes, you can live in dorms while you’re pregnant. Title IX protects your right to housing, and you cannot be discriminated against on the basis of sex. However, most students will be asked to find family-friendly housing after the birth of a child. If you attend a college that requires on-campus housing, you have some options. Your college may offer family-friendly housing on campus, or they may provide you with a waiver to allow you to live off-campus. What if I applied, but changed my mind about going to college? Can I defer? If you’re not ready to go to college yet, you can request a deferral. Becoming unexpectedly pregnant and starting college are both life-changing events. It’s ok if you want to handle one thing at a time. Usually students defer for a year or less, but there are exceptions for longer deferrals. The college can accept or deny a deferral request, and eligibility rules vary. They will ask about why you want to defer, so consider how best to answer the question. Can I go to college if I’m pregnant? Yes you can! You have many legal protections, and there are many opportunities for pregnant students to excel. Ultimately the decision is up to you. If you’re not sure what to do next, we might be able to help you make your college dreams come true! We don’t think that any woman facing an unplanned pregnancy should give up her hope for higher education. If you’re a student facing an unplanned pregnancy, please call or text us at (720) 386-6009 to learn more about your options and all of the support that’s available to you. Some women wonder how to feel happier about their unplanned pregnancy. It’s possible to get excited about your pregnancy - without pretending that you’re OK when you’re not.
Finding yourself unexpectedly pregnant can be a jarring experience, especially for college students. Facing an unplanned pregnancy is often a very emotional experience filled with surprise, fear, uncertainty, and many other difficult feelings. Even women who have decided to keep an unplanned pregnancy may struggle to fully accept the pregnancy and to navigate negative emotions, wondering - will I ever feel ok about this? Will I ever feel ok again? If you’re one of these women, you should know that there’s hope. But you should also know that you don’t have to feel excited about an unplanned pregnancy - and you don’t have to feel ashamed that you’re not happy about it. Taking the time to understand your feelings and to be honest with yourself about the difficulty of your situation can help you cope in a healthy way. If there’s a part of you that wishes you could be excited about your unplanned pregnancy, you should also know that it is possible. It may take time, and it may be a slow process, but eventually this anxiety and overwhelm will subside. As you create a plan for your future, build your support system, and ensure that you have access to all necessary medical care and financial assistance, you also make space to look forward to your future. The Avi Project can help you do that. We help college students facing unplanned pregnancies get the support they need - emotional, financial, medical, and so much more - so they can pursue their education and look forward to successful careers. To learn more about tuition assistance, housing, career counseling, access to licensed counselors, and other resources, just call or text us at 720-386-6009. One of our clients shared this about their own experience with The Avi Project: "Our baby was unplanned but I was given information about this wonderful organization called the Avi Project. I was hesitant about everything at first even if it seemed like I was really put together. The Avi Project helped me realize that people really do care and want the best for you! I have received nothing but support and praise throughout this entire process so far. Because of the Avi Project I am starting to feel more excited about my pregnancy than I am scared.” Please reach out today (720-386-6009) for confidential, no-obligation, 24/7 support. If you’re not ready to talk yet, here are a few tips to help you mindfully notice the positives when you’re feeling trapped by the negatives:
Wondering about being in a sorority while pregnant? Asking the question is a great first step! It’s very healthy to want to surround yourself with friends and a community that can offer you support during this time. It’s especially helpful to surround yourself with people who may be able to help encourage and support you in your academic life.
Everyone’s experience with pregnancy and sorority membership will vary depending on individual circumstances, the sorority’s culture, and the support network available. Whether you’re pregnant and currently in a sorority, or you’re considering joining one, there are a few things to keep in mind. You matter. Your well-being is of the utmost importance. Prioritize your health and seek the necessary medical advice and support during your pregnancy. Surrounding yourself with understanding friends can make a significant difference, especially in navigating the academic challenges that may arise. Commitment. Being part of a sorority can be a fulfilling experience, but it comes with its demands. The level of demand associated with being in a sorority can vary significantly based on the specific sorority, its policies, and the expectations of its members. Factors to consider include time commitment, financial obligations, social expectations, philanthropy and community service, leadership roles, and academic expectations. It’s crucial to assess whether these align with your personal priorities and ability to balance other commitments. Consider your energy levels during pregnancy, any challenges like morning sickness, and ensuring time for doctor's appointments. Be open and honest. While discussing your pregnancy may seem daunting, transparency is essential to building trust within the sorority. Some sororities may have a supportive community that rallies around members during challenging times. Others may have a less understanding environment. Speaking with sorority leadership is a positive step—they may provide resources and guidance tailored to your unique situation. Title IX. Sorority membership practices are usually exempt from Title IX law. While some sororities allow pregnant members and members with children, some may not. Sororities may have specific policies or guidelines regarding pregnancies. It's advisable to review the sorority's rules and communicate openly with sorority leaders about your situation. If you’re not in a sorority yet: For those considering rushing, it's vital to be aware that the first six to eight weeks of sorority membership can be extremely busy (and possibly expensive). Timing is key, and being informed can help you make the right decision for your circumstances. If you’re already in a sorority and just found out you’re pregnant, don’t panic! It’s best to find out if there are rules in the bylaws about pregnancy. Members who become pregnant may have the option to become alumni early and continue to engage with the group in a new capacity. Remember, there are also numerous alternatives to sororities. Academic or professional organizations, book clubs, service groups, and more can provide friendship, community, and connection. Explore options that align with your interests and goals, attend club fairs, and embrace diverse experiences to create a well-rounded college journey. If you’re a college student facing an unplanned pregnancy, you have options, and you don’t have to go through this alone. If you’re still feeling lost, please reach out to our team at any time of day or night. We’re available by call or text at 720-386-6009, and we want to help you access all the resources you need (including housing, tuition assistance, medical care, and more). You have the right to nurse or breast pump - as well as to the time, space, and privacy to do so. Find answers to your questions about where, when, and how to comfortably breast pump or nurse while attending college on campus.
Being a student mom might seem impossible sometimes, but we’re here to support you and show you that it can be done! Are there laws around breastfeeding support for students? Title IX, a federal law, prohibits discrimination based on sex. This includes discrimination based on pregnancy-related conditions such as lactation, breastfeeding, and breast pumping. Under Title IX, educational institutions that receive federal funding are required to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant and parenting students. This may include lactation support such as access to private and clean spaces for expressing breast milk, and reasonable break times to do so. Additionally, institutions may need to make accommodations with class scheduling to ensure that lactating students have the opportunity to express milk as needed. If I miss class to pump or breastfeed, could my grades drop? Pregnancy and related medical conditions are covered by Title IX federal law. If you’re penalized for missing class time or school work due to lactation, that may constitute illegal discrimination. Can I pump and/or breastfeed at college? Many college campuses are supportive of breastfeeding and pumping for nursing mothers. Colleges often have policies in place to accommodate the needs of breastfeeding students. It's a good idea to check with your college's Title IX, health services, or student affairs office to find out about the specific facilities and resources available for breastfeeding or pumping on campus. For students in Colorado, several colleges have lactation policies published online, including University of Denver, University of Northern Colorado, and University of Colorado. These policies frequently recognize that appropriate adjustments should be made to accommodate lactating students, and address common issues:
For any questions about the policy, or for questions that are not addressed in by the lactation policy, typically colleges will refer students to the Title IX coordinator for further information. Where can I pump breast milk on college campus? Here are some common places where you might find lactation rooms on a college campus:
If you're having trouble finding a suitable space for pumping or breastfeeding, consider contacting the campus health services, counseling center, or the office of student affairs. They can help ensure that you have a comfortable and supportive environment for pumping breast milk while on campus. What is a lactation room? Some colleges may provide lactation rooms, which offer privacy for breastfeeding and/or breast pumping. These rooms - they may also be booths or pods - offer a cleaner alternative to restrooms and locker rooms. What should I bring with me to the lactation room? This depends on your personal preferences and the specifics of the lactation room, but you may consider bringing:
Being a student mom is hard. We want to help make it easier. It’s important to note that breastfeeding is protected by law in many places, including on college campuses. If you're unsure where to breastfeed or encounter any challenges, consider reaching out to campus resources, such as health services or student affairs, for assistance. Are you a pregnant student experiencing an unplanned pregnancy? Are you wondering how you’re going to feed your baby and also stay in college? We can help you navigate this new chapter of life. We have many free resources available to you - including tuition assistance, career development counseling, and even housing. Call or text us today at (720) 386-6009 to learn more, or visit our pregnancy Help page. |
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