Student Athletes Facing Pregnancy

Athletes face lots of pressure. Pressure to be the best they can be on and off the field. With 80% of all student-athletes receiving an academic grant or need-based scholarship, there’s also financial pressure to stay in competition during college. 1

With this intense focus, sports participation can be an excellent way for students to stay engaged during college. In fact, between all three divisions, there is an average of 83% academic success rate for students involved in athletics. Pregnancy rates are also significantly reduced in athletes or their partners. It is estimated that 10-15% of female student-athletes and partners of male student-athletes are affected by pregnancy each year. 2 This is a significant decrease compared to the estimated 25% of the entire student population currently pregnant or parenting during college. 3

But what happens when there’s an unexpected pregnancy as a student-athlete? Can you still compete? Can you keep your scholarship? Will you have support from your college athletic department?

The National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) core purpose is “to govern competition in a fair, safe, equitable and sportsmanlike manner, and to integrate intercollegiate athletics into higher education so that the educational experience of the student-athlete is paramount.” With this in mind, the NCAA created the Model Pregnancy Policy to ensure that female or male student-athletes don’t have to face discrimination that would inhibit their physical/mental health or academic achievement.

Every NCAA college must adhere to the NCAA guidelines and policies. Even if a college doesn’t have a written pregnancy policy in its student-athlete handbook, the Model Pregnancy Policy in the NCAA Handbook still applies.

Pregnancy with Female Student-Athletes

For a female athlete, becoming pregnant brings up many overwhelming concerns:

Can I still participate in my sport while pregnant?
If I can’t play, do I lose my scholarship?
Can I come back and play after being pregnant?
What will my coach and teammates think?
How will I handle school, sports, and a baby?
Do I have medical care?

Can I participate in my sport during and after pregnancy?

As soon as you learn that you’re pregnant, we encourage you to share this with someone you trust and feel would provide support. It’s vital to discuss this with your coach and athletic trainer, as they should be informed of the physical changes occurring within your body.

Pregnant student-athletes need monitoring during the early stages of pregnancy. During this time, a medical professional would be concerned with overheating, level of exertion, risk of injury, and pre-pregnancy health status. Even with some of these concerns, the NCAA supports that high athletic activity – with professional healthcare monitoring – is generally safe up to 14 weeks of pregnancy. An athlete can also start competing 6-8 weeks after delivery if she meets the training and medical guidelines.

How am I going to pay for the medical bills?

Title IX Regulations require institutions to treat pregnancy as they treat other temporary illnesses or injuries. Due to this, medical benefits and insurance must be equally available to pregnant student-athletes. In addition, some schools provide assistance with medical expenses related to pregnancy, regardless of athletic status.

Do I lose a year of playing?

According to NCAA bylaws, due to ‘hardship,’ a student-athlete may be granted an additional year of competition, typically referred to as a ‘red-shirted’ year. In addition, a pregnant student who competed during, but did not complete the season, may be granted a hardship waiver.

Will I lose my scholarship(s)?

A pregnant student-athlete’s scholarship is protected from being reduced or withdrawn if you remain in good standing academically and don’t withdraw voluntarily. NCAA bylaws offer numerous ways of protecting scholarships once the letter of agreement has been signed. Just as a student who has suffered an injury or illness is allowed to keep receiving their award, a pregnant student-athlete’s scholarship is also protected.

Pregnancy with Male Student-Athletes

Although a male student-athlete isn’t dealing with the physical body changes that occur with a pregnant female-athlete, the pregnancy can still affect his life. Pressure caused by trying to juggle medical appointments, support for his partner, academics, athletics, and possible parenting can affect academic and athletic performance.

Some concerns may be:

Can I take a year off to help my partner?
If I can’t play, do I lose my scholarship?
Can I come back and play after taking a year off?
What will my coach and teammates think?
How will I handle school, sports, and a baby?
Will my partner have medical care?

Most college athletes are used to encountering the unexpected within their sport. You train to prepare for those challenges and learn to face them head-on. Most of us don’t feel as equipped when facing an unexpected pregnancy. If you suspect that you or your partner is pregnant, your first step should be to confirm the pregnancy. Collage provides free pregnancy testing as well as limited OB ultrasounds. These medical services can get you started by providing important information. We’d love to help you along on your journey so give us a call.

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My Partner is Pressuring Me to Have an Abortion, But I’m Not Sure

February 10, 2026

An unexpected pregnancy can already feel like a lot to carry. However, when your partner is strongly pushing you toward abortion, and you’re not sure what you want, it can feel even heavier. You may feel torn between your own emotions and his expectations, trying to keep the peace while feeling anxious or confused. If you’re in this situation, take a deep breath. At Collage, we understand how emotionally complicated this can be. You deserve a safe place to talk through what you’re feeling and be treated with respect. You don’t have to rush into a decision. Schedule a free appointment to learn how we can help you navigate this situation. It’s Your Decision Sometimes a partner’s reaction is rooted in panic. He may be thinking about finances, school, your relationship, or how unprepared he feels. In his mind, abortion may seem like the fastest solution. When someone repeatedly insists on one outcome, refuses to listen, or makes you feel guilty for even considering other options, it can start to feel like your voice doesn’t matter. And in a moment this vulnerable, your voice matters more than ever. Giving Yourself Space If conversations feel tense or emotionally draining, it’s okay to take a step back. You have the right to say something like, “I need time to think. I’m not ready to decide right now.” Creating a little space can help you reconnect with your own thoughts instead of constantly reacting to his. Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause, breathe, and remind yourself that you don’t have to figure everything out in one day. You Deserve Respect It’s also important to pay attention to warning signs. If your partner threatens to leave, withdraw support, manipulate you emotionally, or isolate you from others unless you choose abortion, that is not love. That is control. You deserve a relationship where your safety and well-being are protected, not threatened. If you ever feel unsafe, reach out for immediate support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) offers 24/7 confidential resources to help you get the assistance you need. You Deserve a Safe Place to Talk It Through At Collage, we’re here to support you. You don’t have to walk into our center with a decision already made. You can come in simply because you need someone to listen, help you process, and remind you that you are not alone. This is your pregnancy and future. If your partner is pressuring you and you’re feeling unsure, please know that help is available. We offer a calm, caring environment where you can talk openly, ask questions, and explore your options without feeling judged or persuaded to make a specific decision. You are not alone in this. Schedule an appointment with Collage today. We’re here to walk with you, one step at a time. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .

Do I Have to Tell My Partner I Want an Abortion?

January 23, 2026

Facing an unplanned pregnancy can bring up difficult questions, especially when it comes to your relationship. You may be wondering whether you are required to tell your partner you’re considering an abortion, or whether it’s okay to keep that information private. Fear of conflict, concern about pressure, or a desire to protect your emotional well-being can all play a role. These feelings are common, and it’s okay to take time to think through what feels safest and healthiest for you. Collage offers a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can discuss these concerns without pressure. Before making any decisions, we provide cost-free pregnancy services , including ultrasounds, to help you understand important details about your pregnancy. Our goal is to give you accurate medical information and the space you need to move forward with clarity. You’re welcome to schedule a private, confidential appointment to learn more when you feel ready. Understanding Your Autonomy In many states, adults are not legally required to tell a partner if they’re considering or planning an abortion. Medical decisions about your body are generally protected by privacy laws, meaning the decision is legally yours. Some exceptions exist, such as parental involvement laws for minors, but partner notification is typically not required for adults. Even when the law is clear, the emotional side of this decision can feel complicated. You may feel torn between maintaining privacy and wanting honesty in your relationship. There is no single “right” approach, only what best supports your well-being and circumstances. When Safety Is a Concern In some relationships, sharing your thoughts with a partner may lead to understanding or emotional support. In others, it may not feel safe. If you’re worried about pressure, manipulation, anger, or physical harm, prioritizing your safety is essential. You’re never obligated to share information that could put you at risk. If you feel unsafe or unsure, confidential help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE). Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Why Medical Information Matters Whether or not you involve your partner, having accurate medical information is an important step. An ultrasound can help confirm gestational age, pregnancy location, and whether the pregnancy is viable. These details matter for your health and can help you feel more grounded as you consider your next steps. You Are Not Alone At Collage, we offer a confidential, respectful environment where your voice and concerns are taken seriously. Our team provides pregnancy confirmation, emotional support, and space to think through your situation without pressure or judgment. You deserve time, clarity, and peace of mind as you decide what is right for your life. Connect with Collage to discuss your questions in a supportive and confidential setting. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.

How to Handle Holiday Gatherings When You Haven’t Shared Your Pregnancy News Yet

December 17, 2025

Holiday gatherings often bring familiar traditions, questions, and expectations. But when you’re carrying the news of an unexpected pregnancy that you haven’t shared, the season may feel different this year. You might be participating in celebrations while quietly navigating thoughts and emotions that others cannot see. If you want clarity about your pregnancy or a private space to consider your next steps, Collage offers free services, including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and confidential consultations, to support your needs. Schedule your appointment today. Prepare Yourself, Not the Perfect Conversation You may not be ready to share your news, and that’s okay. What can help is preparing yourself: deciding on the topics you’re comfortable discussing, the questions you want to avoid, and the boundaries you want to set. This proactivity allows you to answer without feeling like you need to tell all and not overshare. Create Space Throughout the Gathering Instead of thinking about the whole event at once, break it into smaller, manageable moments. Emotional regulation becomes easier when you give yourself space to reset. Try: Stepping outside for a few breaths of fresh air Finding a quiet room for a brief pause Taking a short walk after a meal Giving yourself permission to excuse yourself from overwhelming conversations These small steps can help protect your peace. Remember that if at any point during the gathering you’re ready to go home, go ahead. Take care of yourself by calling it a day when necessary. Meet Your Basic Needs Early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue can be uncomfortable during gatherings. Come prepared to meet your own needs by bringing pregnancy nausea candy, snacks to settle your stomach, and a water bottle. Store these items in your purse, knowing they’re ready when you need them. You Don’t Have to Navigate This Season Alone If you want clarity before facing holiday conversations, Collage can help you understand your pregnancy and answer questions in a calm, confidential setting, which can make these boundaries easier to hold. Contact us whenever you’re ready to schedule a free appointment. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .