Exams, papers, sporting events, and parties fill a college student’s life. How can you possibly add a pregnancy? We’re here to tell you that just because your pregnancy is unplanned, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. You have rights and options. Let’s talk about it.
Title IX Protects You
There’s been a lot of talk about Title IX recently. Much of the conversation has concerned transgender women participating in women’s sports. Did you know Title IX also protects pregnant and parenting women?
According to the law, schools that accept federal funds must comply with Title IX regulations. That includes Mizzou, Columbia College, and Stephen’s College in Columbia, Missouri.
The following are a few of the college requirements if you are pregnant:
- Allow you to continue participating in classes and extracurricular activities. This includes sports, honors classes, clubs, etc.
- Provide reasonable adjustments, such as a larger desk, elevator access, frequent trips to the restroom, etc.
- Excuse absences due to pregnancy or childbirth
- Protect you from harassment
Your Options
You have three options for an unplanned pregnancy: abortion, parenting, or making an adoption plan. You have complete authority to make the choice that’s best for you. No one can force you to choose one option over the other.
Abortion
Each state has different laws regarding abortion. Missouri banned abortion except for medical emergencies that threaten the life of the mother. The FDA does not recommend ordering abortion drugs for a chemical abortion online.
Before moving forward, we recommend getting an ultrasound following a positive pregnancy test. Many pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage, and only an ultrasound determines whether your pregnancy is still growing or you have miscarried.
My Life Clinic in Columbia offers free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds.
Placing Your Child for Adoption
Honest, caring counseling that explains the complete adoption process upfront helps women decide if making an adoption plan is best.
Here are just a few of the benefits of placing your child for adoption through A Gift of Hope Adoptions:
- You pay nothing to make an adoption plan
- All your medical and legal expenses are paid
- Other pregnancy-related expenses paid as approved
- Free counseling, resources, and birth parent connections before, during, and after placement
- You choose the adoptive parents who raise your child
- You can continue a relationship with your child as they grow
Parenting
It is possible to parent a child and stay in college. In fact, it’s essential to get a good education for the sake of your child and yourself. You can successfully parent with a strong support network, community resources, and determination.
Missouri has many programs to assist you. After talking with our adoption coordinator, we can help you access some of those services.
Would You Like More Information?
Sometimes, it helps to talk through a situation to figure out your next steps. No matter what you’re considering, we’ll be happy to chat.
A Gift of Hope Adoptions has been offering adoption services for decades. We’ve worked with many college students throughout the years.
Fill out our convenient online contact form or call 1-888-564-HOPE (4673) to schedule a meeting. Talking with us doesn’t mean you are committing to adoption. We’re here to offer support and assistance.
This blog is for informational purposes only. This is not legal or medical advice. While we try our best to reflect current laws with accuracy at the time of writing, please note the laws can change over time.