Student Pregnancy & Parenting

NOTE: The Employee Pregnancy & Parenting page is linked in the menu to the left.

Title IX makes it illegal to discriminate because of sex, which includes discrimination on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, miscarriage, abortion, or related conditions, including recovery. Title IX also ensures the right to take medically necessary leave and to be free of harassment, intimidation, or other discrimination because of pregnancy-related conditions.  

The University’s Title IX Office works to ensure that the University of Arkansas’s classrooms and programs are accessible to all pregnant students. This includes students experiencing any pregnancy or parenting related condition for which they may need accommodations. This can include natural pregnancies, fertility treatments, adoption and medical conditions related to birth of a child or termination of a pregnancy.

A member of our Title IX team will support students as they arrange reasonable accommodations, in collaboration with faculty and advisors, to allow them the best options for full participation in their academic program, course work, or internships. Reasonable accommodations help student’s maintain their educational plans while not centrally changing the nature of their academic program requirements. 

Reasonable accommodations are assessed on a case-by-case basis and are based on an individualized assessment of the student’s circumstances, physical and mental health conditions and a doctor’s evaluation of what is medically necessary.

Title IX specifically requires any institution that accommodates students with temporary disabilities to offer and provide the same adjustments for students with pregnancy related temporary disabilities. 

You should first submit the Title IX pregnancy accommodations form regarding any pregnancy or parenting related accommodation requests. A member of our team will consult with the Center for Educational Access as needed to facilitate timely and effective provision of accommodations.

FAQ

Does a student have to disclose a pregnancy?

No, a student is not required to disclose a pregnancy. Pregnancy is considered a private medical matter, and students have the right to keep such information confidential if they choose.

Here is a key point to consider when decided to disclose a pregnancy:

  1. Accommodations: While disclosure is not required, if a pregnant student needs accommodations related to their pregnancy (such as adjustments to class attendance policies, assignment deadlines, or physical accommodations), they will need to inform the Title IX Office and officially request accommodations to receive appropriate support. However, the specifics of the medical condition do not need to be disclosed beyond what is necessary to arrange accommodations.

In summary, while a student is not obligated to disclose their pregnancy, they may choose to do so to receive necessary accommodations and support.

Does the University have to excuse absences related to pregnancy, childbirth or other pregnancy related issues?

Yes. Absences due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions must be excused and cannot be treated or penalized like unexcused absences. Depending on the length of the absence and area of instruction, it may be academically necessary for the student to take a leave of absence.

Here are some key points regarding absences:

  1. Excused Absences: We treat pregnancy-related absences in the same manner as they treat other temporary medical conditions. This means that if a student misses classes or exams due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, the absences should be excused.
  2. Makeup Work and Extensions: We are generally required to provide pregnant students with the opportunity to make up missed work, assignments, or exams without penalty.
  3. Documentation: While we cannot require a pregnant student to provide documentation for each absence, we may request medical certification for extended absences or when necessary to determine the need for accommodations.
  4. Communication: It's important for pregnant students to submit an official request for accommodations and to communicate with their professors or academic advisors regarding their pregnancy-related needs and to discuss any necessary accommodations or adjustments to attendance policies.

 

When should a pregnant student request accommodations?

A pregnant student should ideally request accommodations as soon as they become aware of their need for them. It's beneficial to make this request early to ensure that the university has sufficient time to review the request, assess the accommodations needed, and implement them effectively.

Here are some general guidelines about accommodation requests:

  1. As Soon as Possible: Once a student becomes aware of their pregnancy and anticipates needing accommodations, it's advisable to initiate the process.
  2. Before the Need Arises: If the student anticipates needing accommodations for class attendance, deadlines, exams, or other academic requirements due to pregnancy-related issues (such as medical appointments, fatigue, or physical discomfort), it's best to request accommodations before these needs become urgent.
  3. Flexibility in Timing: While early notification is ideal, we will generally accommodate requests made at any point during the pregnancy. However, delays in requesting accommodations may affect our ability to provide timely support.

 

Can a pregnant student participate in internships, clinicals, and other off-campus programs?

Yes, pregnant students can generally participate in internships, clinicals, and other off-campus programs, but it may depend on several factors including the nature of the program and the accommodations that can be reasonably provided.

Here are some considerations when determining participation:

  1. Health and Safety: The primary concern is the health and safety of the pregnant student. Some internships or clinical placements may involve physical tasks, exposure to certain environments or chemicals, or other factors that could pose risks to the student or the pregnancy. In such cases, accommodations may be necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the student.
  2. Accommodations: Under Title IX, the university is required to provide accommodations for pregnant students to ensure equal access to educational opportunities, including internships and clinicals. This may include adjustments to duties, schedules, or environments as needed to accommodate pregnancy-related needs.
  3. Communication and Planning: It's important for pregnant students to communicate early with the Title IX office to assist in the collaborative support of the internship coordinators, supervisors, or clinical instructors and the student about the pregnancy and any accommodations that may be required. This allows for planning and coordination of necessary adjustments well in advance.

Each situation may vary, so it is important for pregnant students to proactively seek information, communicate their needs, and work collaboratively with their educational institution and placement providers to ensure a safe and successful experience in internships, clinicals, and other off-campus programs.

Can a pregnant student take a leave of absence from school?

Yes, a pregnant student typically has the right to take a leave of absence if needed for medical reasons related to pregnancy.

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Reasonable Accommodations: Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, colleges that receive federal funding must provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant students. This includes allowing them to take a leave of absence if necessary due to pregnancy-related medical issues. It is important for the student to notify the Title IX Office as soon as possible about the need for a leave of absence as a reasonable accommodation to allow time to make necessary arrangements.
  2. Duration: The duration of the leave of absence can vary depending on the medical advice and needs of the student. We may require documentation from a healthcare provider specifying the need for the leave and expected duration.
  3. Returning to College: Pregnant students who take a leave of absence have the right to return to the college in the same academic status as when they left. This means they should be able to resume their studies without penalty.
  4. Financial Aid and Scholarships: Students should check with the college's financial aid office regarding any impact on financial aid or scholarships during a leave of absence. In some cases, arrangements can be made to defer aid until the student returns.

Overall, pregnant students have legal protections under Title IX to take a leave of absence if necessary for medical reasons related to pregnancy.

Does the University provide parental leave for pregnant students?

The University of Arkansas is not required to provide parental leave for pregnant students However, we must comply with Title IX regulations, which mandate that we provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant students to ensure they can continue their education.

Here are some important points regarding parental leave and pregnant students in college:

  1. Reasonable Accommodations: Under Title IX, colleges must provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant students, which can include allowing for a temporary leave of absence for childbirth and recovery if no other accommodations can be made.
  2. Temporary Medical Leave: If necessary temporary medical leave could be an option during childbirth and recovery. This is determined on a case-by-case basis.
  3. Consultation with Title IX Office: It's beneficial for pregnant students to discuss their plans with the Title IX Office, academic advisors, and instructors.

Although we are not required to office parental leave, we wish to work closely to assure students have the accommodations necessary for academic success.