Although there is no law requiring you to disclose your pregnancy to your professors, you will need to do so in order to make use of the protections established by Title IX. Make sure you know what your rights are, so that you can both prevent and recognize academic discrimination stemming from your pregnancy.
Remember that your professors may not have experience with having a pregnant student, and by knowing your rights, you can help them understand how they can help you accomplish your goals. Check out Your Rights As a Pregnant Student and Mother.
When should you tell your professors?
Though it is up to you to decide when to tell your professors, it is important to do so. Ultimately, their support and understanding of your needs and goals can help you to stay on track academically.
Prior to talking with your professors, consider talking to a counselor or a chaplain on campus who can be your advocate if needed.
If you know that you will need to miss class because of your pregnancy or childbirth, make sure to give your professors enough notice. This is especially important around exam time.
Work with your professors to find a plan to keep up in your classes as you go through your pregnancy. If you feel that you are being discriminated against, talk to your Title IX coordinator on campus.
Remember, you are not alone. While you may run into people who are not supportive—either because they don’t know how to be or because of their own feelings—there will be many people who will respect your determination and desire to continue on your academic path. There are people on every campus, including professors, who will help you on your journey to motherhood.
