Tips For Expecting Moms in School
Pregnancy can be a challenging time for any expectant mother. Between the physical changes and emotional stresses of pregnancy, it can be tough to balance all your responsibilities while still taking care of yourself.
What are the Challenges of Being Pregnant While In College?
For expectant mothers enrolled in college or are thinking of pursuing educational pursuits during pregnancy, you may face a few specific challenges.
For instance, morning sickness during the early stages of pregnancy can make attending early morning in-person classes difficult. In addition, the fatigue that often comes later in pregnancy can be hard to manage while still trying to attend classes and study. And for pregnant students who are also juggling a work schedule, the demands can feel even more overwhelming.
Tips for Handling Pregnancy While In College
Whether you’re currently pregnant or are thinking about becoming pregnant while in college, you can do a few things to help make the experience more manageable.
1) Arrive On Campus Prepared – Like every student, you should always arrive on campus prepared. It’s a good idea to carry essential items like a water bottle, nutritious snacks, and other things you might need throughout the day. Keeping these items handy can help combat pregnancy symptoms like nausea and fatigue.
2) Dress Comfortably – Choose loose and comfortable clothing to help you feel your best during pregnancy. In addition to being more relaxed, clothing that is easy to move in will make it easier for you to navigate campus, get in and out of chairs, and take care of yourself. Luckily, there are plenty of stylish and comfortable clothing options available for pregnant women these days.
3) Take Breaks When You Need Them – Don’t be afraid to take a break when you need one. For example, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, step away from your studies and take some time to yourself. Pregnancy can be taxing on your body and mind, so it’s essential to listen to your body and take needed breaks if you feel the need.
4) Adjust Your Course Load As Needed – It can be tough to balance the demands of college classes with the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy, so having the flexibility to adjust your course load to accommodate your changing needs is very important.
If you find that you need to take on fewer classes to manage your pregnancy better, talk to your professors and advisors about making this change. If it’s an option, you might explore online or hybrid courses that empower students to attend classes virtually from the comfort of home, which can be a more comfortable option during pregnancy.
5) Find Support And Resources – Whether it’s finding a local support group, reaching out to fellow expectant mothers on campus, or utilizing online resources, it’s essential to find the support you need during this time.
These days, expectant mothers can find information about available resources, so it’s crucial to take advantage of these tools and talk openly about your needs with those around you.
6) Take Care Of Yourself – One of the most important things you can do for yourself and your baby is taking care of your health. You want to eat a balanced diet and stay active. Stress can harm you and your baby, so find healthy ways to manage stress like yoga, meditation, or journaling.
There’s no reason not to pursue your education while successfully managing your pregnancy by making healthy choices and leaning on your healthcare provider and support network.
7) Get Plenty of Rest – Pregnancy can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally. So make sure to get enough high-quality rest by setting a regular sleep schedule and sticking to it as much as possible. If you’re having trouble or struggling to sleep, talk to your doctor about safe options for sleep aids.
Some holistic sleep aids they might recommend could include:
- Chamomile tea
- Lavender oil
- Melatonin supplements
- Warm baths
Eating a nutritious and healthy diet and regular exercise helps improve your sleep.
8) Set Realistic Expectations – Pregnancy is a fantastic time, but it’s important to remember it’s not always easy.
Have patience with yourself and set realistic expectations. With more flexible college programs available, today’s college students have more options to learn at their own pace than ever before.
So regardless of whether you’re pursuing a certificate, an associate, or a bachelor’s degree, if you’re pregnant, know that you have options to help make your educational journey as smooth as possible.
If you are feeling overwhelmed with your pregnancy and need support, give our team a call! (419) 241-9131
