The moment you see those two lines, your mind may jump straight to hallways, classrooms, and whether you’ll be able to keep up. It’s completely natural to worry that your education could be interrupted or that everything you’ve worked for is suddenly at risk.
Fears about talking to school administrators, falling behind, or even dropping out can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: you do not have to choose between your diploma and your pregnancy. You have strong legal protections, and support is available to help you use them.
Bella Women’s Center is here to be your first call for confidential medical services and compassionate guidance at no cost.
Your Education is Protected by Title IX
The most important thing to know is that your rights are protected under Title IX, the federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. Every public high school and most private schools receiving federal funding must follow this law. That means pregnant and parenting students must be treated fairly and given equal access to their education.
Title IX guarantees:
- Excused Absences: Schools must excuse absences related to pregnancy, childbirth, miscarriage, or other medical conditions such as morning sickness or prenatal appointments. You must be allowed to make up assignments and tests without penalty.
- Continued Enrollment: You cannot be removed from school or forced into an alternate program because you’re pregnant. You have the right to stay in your regular classes and activities.
- Reasonable Accommodations: Depending on your needs, this may include carrying a water bottle, getting extra restroom breaks, receiving elevator access, or being provided homebound instruction if medically necessary.
If you experience pushback or discrimination, contact your school’s Title IX Coordinator for support.
Your Immediate Action Plan
Before making decisions about your future, start with clear medical information:
- Confirm Your Pregnancy: Bella Women’s Center offers free, lab-quality pregnancy testing and a limited ultrasound to confirm viability, gestational age, and pregnancy location.
- Access Resources: We can connect you with parenting support, adoption information, and factual options counseling, all in a confidential, nonjudgmental environment.
Pregnancy does not end your educational goals. Contact Bella Women’s Center today to get the clarity and support you need to plan your next step with confidence.
