Pregnancy in College
- Francesca De Geronimo
- Jan 25, 2022
- 1 min read
Luna Doula Support Network member: Carina Tedesco
Due in part to the stigma surrounding pregnancy in college that quiets many of those who experience it, it may come as a shock to many that about 50 percent of college students experience unexpected pregnancy. Unfortunately, one in ten pregnant persons drop out of college due to an unplanned pregnancy, and fewer than two percent of teenage pregnant persons finish college by age 30. Title IX does help to protect pregnant and birthing students (UM Title IX page: https://oie.umich.edu/title-ix/) however, here at the University of Michigan, there is a much stronger focus on outreach regarding birth control and preventing STDs/STIs, and almost no resources related to support during pregnancy. Childcare services are all but non-existent and on-campus living is often not allowed for liability reasons. Students who wish to apply for the Child Care Subsidy must meet several eligibility criteria and must submit both a federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and an application for the Subsidy⸺this aid is deemed “emergency aid.” Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic has created even more challenges specific to pregnant persons and new parents, especially those who are still pursuing their education. UM also has little support for individuals undergoing abortions or those who need support in making such decisions. UM and all educational institutions should be working harder to support individuals who are undergoing pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy loss and termination, especially during this trying time.
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