Pregnant in College? You've Got This!

Finding out you're pregnant while juggling classes, exams, and maybe even a part-time job can feel overwhelming. It's easy to think that your dreams and goals for the future are suddenly out of reach. But at the Women's Center of Greater Chicagoland, we believe that you can successfully navigate college and parenthood with the right support and resources.

You're Not Alone

Many college students face unplanned pregnancies, and it's crucial to remember that you're not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help you succeed. Reach out to your friends, family, and trusted mentors for support. Don't ever be afraid to ask for help when you need it. If you’re in need of someone to talk to, contact our team today!

Understanding Your Options

An unplanned pregnancy can feel like a confusing and overwhelming experience. It's important to remember that you have choices, and you're not alone in this journey. At the Women's Center, we're here to provide you with accurate information and compassionate support as you explore your options.

Here are the three primary paths you can consider:

Abortion: This is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy. It's crucial to understand the different types of abortion procedures, their potential risks, and the emotional impact they can have.
Adoption: Adoption is a loving option where you choose a family to raise your child. It's about making a selfless decision to provide your child with a stable and nurturing home, even if you're not ready or able to parent at this time.
Parenting: Choosing to raise your child is a life-changing decision filled with both challenges and incredible rewards. It's about embracing the journey of motherhood and providing love and care for your child as they grow.

We can provide you with more information about each of these options, helping you weigh the potential impact of each choice and make a decision that aligns with your values and goals.

Balancing College and Parenthood

It's challenging but entirely possible to balance college and parenthood. Many colleges offer resources for pregnant and parenting students, such as:

Flexible scheduling: Online classes, night classes, and independent study options can help you fit your coursework around your parenting responsibilities.
Childcare assistance: Some colleges offer on-campus childcare centers or can help you find affordable childcare options in the community.
Academic advising: Academic advisors can help you create a manageable course load and connect you with other resources.

Your Rights Under Title IX

Title IX is a federal civil rights law that protects pregnant and parenting students from discrimination. This means that your school cannot:

Exclude you from participating in school activities or programs because you're pregnant or parenting.
Force you to take a leave of absence.
Treat you differently than other students because of your pregnancy or parenting status.

Your school is also required to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy and childbirth, such as excused absences for medical appointments and the ability to make up missed work.

Finding Support and Resources

The Women's Center of Greater Chicagoland: We offer a variety of free services to support pregnant and parenting students, including pregnancy options consultations, parenting classes, and referrals to community resources.
Your College: Talk to your school counselor or a trusted teacher about your situation. They can help you explore options for continuing your education and access available resources.
Online Communities: Connect with other young parents online for support, advice, and encouragement.

Wrapping Up

Pregnancy in college can be a challenging journey, but it doesn't have to derail your dreams or define your future. With the right support, resources, and a determined spirit, you can successfully navigate both parenthood and your education. Remember, you are not alone. The Women's Center is here to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your options, access resources, and find the strength to embrace this new chapter.

We believe in your ability to thrive as both a student and a parent. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for guidance, information, and compassionate care. We're here to help you create a future where you can achieve your academic goals while building a loving and fulfilling life for yourself and your child.