If you’re a college student and you find out that you’re pregnant, you might be feeling a range of emotions. You might be excited, scared, or worried about how this will affect your future. Whatever you’re feeling, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are people and resources available to help you through this time.

You probably have questions – a lot of them. Let us help answer some of those for you.

“I just found out I’m pregnant. I’m still in college and I’m scared. What do I do? What can I do?”

When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, you have options. You need to decide whether you will abort the pregnancy, carry it to term and then put the child up for adoption, or if you want to keep and raise the child yourself. Each option involves difficult choices and comes with its own pros and cons.

• • • Abortion: This is the first option that comes to mind for many college students that find themselves staring at a positive pregnancy test. Terminating the pregnancy is often considered the quickest and easiest option. However, in many cases, an abortion causes emotional trauma for the mother.  It is also a serious medical procedure that comes with certain risks.
    • Adoption: Carrying the pregnancy to term and placing the baby for adoption is another option that you can consider. Adoption allows you to help give your child a good home and a loving family, even if you are not in a position to directly provide that yourself. It can be a very rewarding experience, but it can also be difficult to let go of your child after carrying him or her for so long.
    • Parenting: Keeping and raising the child yourself is a third option to consider. This comes with the most responsibility, but it can also be the most rewarding. If you choose to parent, you will need to make some changes to your lifestyle and schedule, but you will also have the opportunity to watch your child grow and learn.

Ultimately, there is no easy answer when it comes to choosing between abortion, adoption, and parenting. Every situation is unique, and each woman must make the decision that is best for her. If you aren’t sure what option you should choose, our team would be happy to chat with you about your specific circumstances and help you choose the best route forward.

“If I choose to carry to term, what do I do about school?”

For some women, continuing to go to school throughout their pregnancy is the best option. They may feel more comfortable being around their peers and familiar surroundings. Others may find that they need to take a break from school during their pregnancy. Carrying a pregnancy to term is a big responsibility, but it is also an incredibly rewarding experience.

“I want to continue with school during my pregnancy. How do I do that?”

If you decide to stay in school while maintaining your pregnancy, there are some things you’ll want to do:

• • • Talk to the dad. If you know the father of your child, be sure to inform him of the pregnancy and your intentions. If appropriate, allow him the opportunity to be involved in the pregnancy and to serve as a help and support to you.
    • Involve your family and friends. You’ll need a support system to help you through your pregnancy, and your family and friends can be great sources of that support. Talk to them about your decision to continue the pregnancy and to stay in school. Don’t be discouraged if they don’t agree with your decision. Remember that this is your choice, and ultimately, you need to do what’s best for you. If you find yourself without the support you need from friends and family, we can help you establish a healthy support system with peers and counselors that understand what you’re going through.
    • Schedule a meeting with your academic advisor to discuss your course load and any accommodations you may need, such as providing a larger desk or allowing you to take breaks more often.
    • Be sure to manage your time wisely and ensure you are getting plenty of rest. Pregnancy can be exhausting, so it is important to listen to your body and take things at a pace that you are comfortable with.
    • Remember to eat healthy and stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water and getting the right nutrients will help you and your baby stay healthy throughout your pregnancy.
    • Let us partner with you. Ramona Women’s Clinic exists to provide support and resources to women in situations like yours. If you need help on your pregnancy journey, we’re here for you.

It can be scary to find out you’re pregnant when you’re a college student, but it is possible to manage both school and pregnancy with the right support system. Remember: you are strong and you don’t have to give up on your dreams of getting a degree just because you’re going to be a parent. If you choose to keep your baby and stay in school, we have resources and help available to you. At Ramona Women’s Clinic, we can provide guidance and support through every step of your pregnancy journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need help or have any questions about your pregnancy or options.

Want to visit our center? Click on your school’s link below to get directions.

Palomar College

San Diego Miramar College