Finding out you’re pregnant while you’re in college can bring a lot of questions. How will you keep up with classes? What about your schedule, studying, work, or other responsibilities? Balancing school and pregnancy may feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure everything out at once.
Planning ahead, taking care of yourself, and knowing where to turn for support can make a difference. Let’s look at a few challenges you may experience during pregnancy and some practical ways to navigate them while continuing your education.
Challenge 1: Morning Sickness
Morning sickness can include nausea, with or without vomiting, and is especially common during the first trimester. Despite its name, it can happen at any time of the day or night.
A few things that may help include:
- Eat a few crackers or another bland food before getting out of bed in the morning.
- Try eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than three large meals.
- Choose foods that are easy to tolerate, and include protein when you can.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Avoid foods or smells that seem to trigger your nausea.
If your nausea or vomiting is severe, you are unable to keep liquids down, or you are concerned about your symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
Challenge 2: A Busy Schedule
Between classes, studying, work, and other responsibilities, it can be difficult to find time to eat regularly or take a break. Planning ahead can help. Consider packing meals, snacks, and a water bottle before you leave for the day so you have something available when you need it.
When possible, build a little extra time into your schedule for meals, rest, medical appointments, and other pregnancy-related needs.
Challenge 3: Finding Energy to Finish Homework / Study
Fatigue is common during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. You may find it harder to concentrate or have the same energy for studying and homework that you had before.
When possible, plan your most demanding schoolwork for the time of day when you tend to have the most energy. Give yourself time to rest when you need it, take breaks while studying, and try to maintain a regular sleep schedule.
Most importantly, give yourself some grace. Balancing pregnancy, school, and everyday responsibilities can be challenging, and you don’t have to do everything perfectly.
Give Yourself Time and Support
Balancing college and pregnancy can bring challenges you may not have expected. Take things one step at a time, pay attention to what your body needs, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way.
You may also find it helpful to talk with someone you trust about what you’re experiencing. Having support as you consider your pregnancy, education, and future can make a difference.
If you’re pregnant and attending college, you don’t have to navigate your next steps alone. Daybreak LifeCare Center provides pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, pregnancy-options information, and ongoing support in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Our services are confidential and provided at no cost. Call us at 803-771-6634 to schedule an appointment.
Sources
Morning Sickness: Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy
Pregnancy Fatigue: Why You’re So Tired and What to Do About It.
Mayo Clinic.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20046068