Accommodations For Pregnant College Students

When morning sickness, doctor appointments, and even childbirth conflict with your college schedule, what are you supposed to do? Do colleges accommodate pregnant students in these situations? If you’re struggling to keep up with the demands of your college curriculum, it’s time to request accommodations for your pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions. 

Pregnant students are protected by Title IX, a federal law that prohibits gender-based discrimination in educational institutions. Any college that receives federal funding is required to treat pregnant students with disabilities just like any other student with disabilities. Let’s talk about what accommodations are available to pregnant students, why you might need them, and how to get them.

What are accommodations for pregnant students?
An accommodation is an exception or adjustment granted to an individual to ensure equal access to opportunities. When someone experiences disability in a university setting, accommodations remove barriers to education. Often, there’s a stipulation that the accommodations must be “reasonable.”

What are reasonable accommodations?
A reasonable accommodation provides equal access to an opportunity, without causing undue hardship for the college. It effectively solves a problem for the student, but is not overly burdensome on the educational institution, including the professor and other students.

What are some examples of accommodations for pregnant and parenting students?
Accommodations are very unique to your personal situation, and there isn’t an exhaustive list of what accommodations are and are not allowed. The best approach is to discuss your needs with the disability services office and explore what accommodations might work for you, but here are a few ideas to consider:

• Leave of absence or medically necessary leave
  
• More flexibility with attendance requirements
  
• Frequent breaks for rest, lactation, stretching, or bathroom use
  
• A different chair, a footstool, standing, or more comfortable seating
  
• Deadline extensions and early access to assignments
  
• A reduced work load
  
• A lactation room with privacy
  
• Access to parking spaces or elevators
  
• Snacks and drinks in the classroom
  
• Opportunities to make up missed coursework
  

What conditions qualify for accommodations?
Accommodations are available for a wide range of pregnancy-related conditions and disabilities. Some of the most common ones include:

• Pregnancy
  
• Childbirth
  
• Early delivery
  
• Miscarriage
  
• Morning sickness
  
• Fatigue
  
• Back pain
  
• Lactation
  
• Postpartum depression
  
• Extended recovery
  
• Gestational diabetes
  
• Preeclampsia
  
• Hyperemesis gravidarum
  
• Infections
  

How do I get accommodations?
Getting accommodations shouldn’t be difficult, but going through the formal process does take a few steps. Here’s a quick way to get started:

1. Identify your college’s office responsible for disability accommodations. It might be called the Office of Accessibility Services, Disability Services, or something similar. 
   
2. Find out what the documentation requirements are. Your college might require a diagnosis from a doctor or the results of a recent medical test.
   
3. Think about the challenges you’re facing and what accommodations might help you. The disability office should be able to tell you what accommodations are available, but since every situation is unique, it’s best to have an idea of what you would find most helpful.
   
4. Schedule a meeting with the disability office. You’ll be able to discuss your needs and challenges, and learn more about the procedures for requesting and using accommodations.
   
5. Complete any forms provided by the office. Be sure to include your supporting documentation with your formal accommodation request paperwork.
   
6. Work collaboratively to create an accommodation plan. After reviewing your request and documentation, the office will work with you to develop a formal accommodation plan. 
   
7. Communicate with your professors. You’ll typically receive an accommodation letter from the disability services office which you can take to an appointment with your professor. The letter outlines your approved accommodations but does not disclose your specific diagnosis.
   
8. Know Your Rights and Advocacy Options. If you believe your accommodations are not being met, contact the disability services office or your college’s Title IX or ADA coordinator for assistance.
   

Navigating college as a pregnant or parenting student can be challenging, but with the right accommodations and support, success is within reach. By understanding your rights under Title IX, connecting with your school’s resources, and advocating for your needs, you can create a pathway that balances your academic goals with your responsibilities as a parent.

If you need help navigating the college experience with an unexpected pregnancy, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time of day or night. Our team at The Avi Project is available 24/7 to help Colorado students succeed in their academic careers. Text or call us at 720-386-6009 to learn more about the emotional, monetary, and material support available to you. It’s completely confidential and commitment-free.
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Remember, you’re not alone—your community is there to help, and countless students have thrived in similar circumstances. With determination and the proper support, you can achieve your educational dreams while providing for your family.