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What Do I Need to Know if I Am Pregnant in College?

woman pregnant in college

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.

What Questions Can We Answer?

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testimonials

Elizabeth and A Gift of Hope have been a touchstone during our adoption process. Having had issues with a previous agency – Elizabeth was a breath of fresh air! Reassuring, supportive and empathetic. We are so in love with our daughter and thank A Gift of Hope everyday for her!

AGOHA is a great agency that has provided amazing support and guidance though the adoption process. Would highly recommend AGOHA!

Our family has used their services for adoption. It’s wonderful dealing with someone who is looking out for the whole child, not just placing kids.

A Gift of Hope Adoptions is a Godsend for so many expectant young mothers. I completely recommend this organization for anyone interested in providing a wonderful life for their soon-to-be baby. This organization is also a Godsend for those of us who cannot have our own biological children.

I have recommended A Gift of Hope Adoptions to several mother’s considering adoptions for their babies. They have been so happy to feel supported and empowered through their decision.
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“We adopted both of our sons through A Gift of Hope Adoptions. They helped us every step of the way and answered all the questions we had, and we had a lot! We would not be where we are today, with two busy boys in our family, if it wasn’t for A Gift of Hope.”

“We decided to use A Gift of Hope Adoptions because they are very personal and caring. The wait and uncertainty of adoption seemed daunting, but A Gift of Hope helped make the process go smoothly, and we couldn’t be happier with our beautiful child.”