College is an exciting time filled with fresh opportunities and hurdles, making it an important time in life. It’s often a time for self-development, academic accomplishments, and making memories that will last a lifetime. However, discovering you are pregnant during your college years can be an unexpected and intense situation.

Here at Insight Women’s Center (located right here in Lawrence), we recognize the specific difficulties college students may encounter when facing an unexpected pregnancy. Concerns about your future, academic pursuits, and adapting to upcoming changes are entirely natural. Experiencing a blend of excitement, fear, anxiety, and confusion is common. We want to assure you that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone! Our center provides a variety of free services with medical professionals to support you.

Your Emotions Play a Part Here
Finding out you’re pregnant while in college can bring a wide range of emotions. You might feel excited, scared, anxious, or just plain in shock. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and realize that this is normal. At our center, we offer a non-judgmental space where you can express your emotions and receive the support and information you need. Most important, know it’s okay to feel unsure. Don’t be in a hurry to take action – you have time, and should take that time to process your situation and learn all you can about what’s available to you and what your best choice is (both for now and for future-you).

Prioritizing Your Health (and that of your baby)
Your health and the health of your baby are top priorities. Prenatal care is essential for keeping track of your pregnancy and safeguarding the health of both you and your baby. Insight Women’s Center offers free pregnancy testing and referrals to healthcare providers. We provide evidence-based medical education (EBM) and nursing consultations necessary to make informed decisions that are best for the health of both you and your baby. All of our services are always completely free of charge, so you can take advantage of these medical services at any time.

Managing School and Pregnancy at the Same Time
No doubt about it, balancing academic responsibilities while being pregnant can be daunting, but it is achievable. Utilizing effective time management, maintaining open communication with your professors, and getting support from your college’s student services can greatly contribute to your success. A flexible study schedule and options like online classes can be a huge help to you. We are STRONGLY pro-woman: which means that we will never tell you that you can’t do this. In fact, we believe that you are stronger than you know, and are capable of handling pregnancy and schooling together. And you won’t have to do this alone – we’re here to help provide the support and structure you need to do this!

What Options Do You Have?
It’s crucial to explore all your options thoroughly in order to make a well-informed decision. Whether you are considering parenting, adoption, or abortion, you need resources and information for each path. We provide evidenced-based education regarding all of your pregnancy options. Visit our parenting page to learn more about help and options available to you. We can assist you in applying for KanCare, as well as supplying baby items and pregnancy, delivery, and infant-care classes. If adoption is part of your story, we can provide you with information and referrals to local adoption agencies. If you decide to have an abortion and find it is affecting you more than you think it should, we are here to help with after abortion support. 

Understanding Your Legal Rights
As a pregnant student, you have legal rights on campus, including the right to fair treatment, academic accommodations, and access to health services. Being aware of these rights ensures you receive the support and respect you deserve at your educational institution. You can find out more about your rights as a pregnant student at the University of Kansas here.

Planning for Post-Pregnancy
Planning for life after your baby’s arrival is essential. Whether you choose to continue your education, take a break, or explore new career paths, having a plan can offer a sense of direction and stability. For additional guidance and support, consider discussing your plans with a counselor or advisor at your college.

Attention: Men
If you are a male student who is supporting a partner during a college pregnancy, know that your part in all of this is very essential. Providing understanding, emotional support, and actively participating in planning and decision-making can significantly impact your partner’s experience. Insight has services just for men – led by men – that can give you the education and support you need to support your partner.

Reaching Out for Support
Insight Women’s Center is here to support you – both now and for the long-term. We empower you with evidence-based education, and resources to help you make the best decisions for your future. If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy in college, we encourage you to reach out to us. You can easily make an appointment online for a time that best fits your schedule. Here, you will find a non-judgmental, no-pressure place that has your best at heart!

  Just click the “Request an Appointment” button below and pick a time that works for you.