Tips to Navigate School and Pregnancy

It’s important to know that being pregnant in college does not mean you have to drop out of school. Pregnancy does not have a negative impact on your education. Even though it may be a bigger challenge to pursue your degree, the reward will be more worth it when you graduate. Having your education under your belt can open doors to greater employment opportunities. In an interview I conducted with an ex-North Central student and young mother, she said “It took me double effort to finish my degree, I had to put my child’s needs first which means doing homework after they’re asleep until 3 am however once you pass these challenges can be a powerful source of personal satisfaction and sense of accomplishment” 

Due to these challenges, you will need a plan and good communication with your school, support is available, and I’ll give you some personal tips that I consider necessary to accomplish your goal.

1. Make the right schedule. This could be taking fewer classes or switching to online classes while you are in your final term. Get connected with your advisor or any coordinator who can inform you of all your possible options. In the United States, your school is required under Title IX to support your studies, accommodate your medical needs, and protect you from discrimination, harassment, and bullying.

2. Let your professors know right away. Email them or talk to them in person to make a plan for when you give birth or suffer any complications. Keep them updated and let them know any other accommodation that can be necessary like: more use of the restroom, changing equipment, or any excuse for absence due to your needs.

3. Take care of yourself. You won’t be able to do schoolwork if you are constantly tired or not feeling well. Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle this includes getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy and balanced diet.

Self Care / Stay Healthy

Now that you are pregnant, taking care of yourself has never been more important. Consuming healthy food, low-calorie beverages, particularly water, and the appropriate number of calories might help you and your baby gain the proper amount of weight.

The U.S. Public Health Service recommends that all women of childbearing age consume 400 micrograms (0.4 mg) of folic acid each day. This nutrient is crucial during early pregnancy to reduce the risk of birth defects in the brain and spine.

It’s crucial to take precautions and avoid foods that are more likely to be contaminated with bacteria or to contain heavy metals such as raw eggs, undercooked fish or meat, unpasteurized milk or juices, and processed meat like hot dogs and deli meats. For more about healthy eating see Healthy Moms Strong Babies to make an eating plan the best work for you. In case you need help purchasing some essential food, there is a special supplemental nutrition program for women and children in the United States call Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) which provides free healthy food, breastfeeding support, nutrition, education, and referrals to other services to support you and your family. Don’t forget to get involved in regular exercise, while avoiding alcohol, smoking, and excessive caffeine. Consult your healthcare provider about safe and appropriate exercise routines, rest when you can, and don’t push yourself too hard.

Ways to Reduce Stress and Depression During Pregnancy

We all have good and bad days. But if you have ongoing feelings of sadness, feeling down, or have lost interest or pleasure in everyday life, then you might be experiencing depression. Around 20% of pregnant women could experience excessive concern regarding future events in pregnancy. Up to 70% of pregnant women report symptoms of stress and anxiety during pregnancy, with between 10% and 16% of them fulfilling the criteria for a major depressive disorder according to The National institute of Health database. Many women also feel sad or anxious about changes happening to their bodies. They may experience pregnancy discomforts or even have financial concerns about taking on new responsibilities. If you don’t have a supportive partner or network of friends and family during pregnancy it is very crucial to reach out to your doctor, school, or local health department so they can connect you to other resources. From my personal experience my coordinator from school was always looking out for me and on top of my professors to make sure I was doing good which played a vital role resolving any complication she said “All schools should have a designed Title IX Coordinator” who under Title IX address any sex-based discrimination in education programs and activities promoting gender equity. Besides mental support you should practice some physical activity to improve your mood and help you sleep. Do things you enjoy and try to find any podcast, book, or even an influencer that can provide practical tips to help you manage your situation. Listening to other people's experiences can inspire you and motivate you to pursue your personal growth.