Pregnant in Nursing School (Tips, Reasons, Pros & Cons)

Going for classes while pregnant in nursing school can be challenging, but going to nursing school or working as a bedside nurse can seem especially challenging.

While it is true that balancing school or work obligations while pregnant can be difficult, it is certainly doable with the correct guidance and commitment.

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Can You Be Pregnant While In Nursing School?

Yes! While attending nursing school while pregnant is not ideal for the majority, it is absolutely achievable with a few lifestyle adjustments.

With remote choices and a support system, you can complete nursing school regardless of your pregnancy stage.

The federal government regulates pregnancy and college-level learning. Some women schedule their pregnancies around nursing school, but others get pregnant mid-way through.

Fortunately, there are laws protecting pregnant women in nursing school.

NB: It might be a bit challenging balancing both, but with support and planning, many women do it. Just talk to the school and your doctor about any concerns.

When is the Best Time to Get Pregnant in Nursing School?

One benefit of becoming pregnant early in nursing school is that you can plan and decide when to take a break and resume your studies after a brief hiatus.

However, a downside is managing the demands of a newborn while wrapping up your degree and starting your job.

NB: Pregnancy and childbirth come with costs. Consider how this will impact your ability to pay tuition or if you’ll need to work while studying.

Check with your school about leave policies. Some schools may be accommodating with maternity leave, while others may have stricter policies.

On the other hand, if you plan to jump right into work after graduation, consider how maternity leave might align with job opportunities.

What Every Pregnant Nursing Student Should Know?

The following does not constitute legal advice; tools are available online.

First, you should understand what it means to inquire about pregnancy while enrolled in nursing school. More so, understand your rights around pregnancy and school.

1. Documentation:

A physician must document absences from pregnancy and delivery. While attendance at a nursing school is needed for education, schools must provide exceptions for these.

It is advisable to plan ahead so you do not miss tests or quizzes and can arrange make-up work wisely. While this is advantageous when planning ahead, labor does not always come at the optimal time.

You need not be concerned; your education will be unaffected.

2. Clinical Rotations:

Make reasonable accommodations. Like having the same services available, pregnant women have more options than others. You may be able to take more breaks or delegate heavy lifting.

Beginning your clinical rotations is another fair adjustment.

Long times on your feet may be required, which can be managed by more breaks or time seated. You may also need to deny care because it harms you and your kid.

3. Previous Educational Level:

Students must be able to return to their former educational level in nursing programs.

If you are enrolled in a nursing program and have completed one year but have been required to take a pregnancy leave, you will not be required to repeat the program but will be expected to pick up where you left off and begin the second year as if you had not taken leave.

4. Discrimination:

Students who are pregnant are protected against harassment and other forms of discrimination. If you ever feel uneasy about comments or actions at your school, do well to notify the administrator.

Precautions for pregnant women should not be disregarded. Not addressed properly can harm your mental health and academic success in nursing school.

5 Reasons Why Nursing School Is Hard While Pregnant:

Being pregnant in nursing school can be a significant life change. From the outside, it appears that doing both is twice as difficult. Here are our top five reasons why pregnancy while nursing school is difficult.

1. Pressure:

There will be a lot of pressure while in nursing school, but considerably more when you graduate and have an infant to care for.

Stress has been linked to high blood pressure, which can affect pregnancy. Stress and pregnancy can contribute to increased school-related stress.

2. Mother and Baby Visitations:

Having a baby requires many doctor visits, and nursing school can be time-draining.

Not going for lectures/lab practicals or thinking for your baby is time away from nursing school.

As your pregnancy progresses, visitations become more frequent, requiring time away from lectures, studying, or cutting into your limited free time.

3. Money Availability:

Nursing school and childbirth are both costly. This is a common issue when planning for the future.

Some want kids before starting a profession, while others want to finish their education first. But for you, the costs can appear to pile up. It is vital to plan ahead of time to feel in control of your finances.

4. Psychological factor:

There are various stigmas and preconceptions about pregnant women that you may encounter.

You may not put nursing school first or be a suitable fit for the role due to the time off required. This can be a psychological factor, but it doesn’t have to hinder your achievement.

5. Time Allocation:

School, clinical hours, laboratories, and studying take time away from other things. It’s difficult to balance time commitments in nursing school, let alone while pregnant.

There is less time in the day to take care of yourself, and it may take longer to complete simple activities like making your bed or cleaning.

How to survive being pregnant in nursing school:

1. Request assistance:

Request assistance or accommodations even if you do not believe you require them.

Some processes and procedures must be followed, and because this may not be an immediate accommodation, the sooner you can establish them, the better the outcome will be when you require them.

2. Eat good food:

Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet. Your health and well-being are critical to your success and necessary for navigating nursing school clinicals while pregnant.

Be vocal about your pregnancy, especially if you are not visibly pregnant so that medical personnel can keep an eye out for you.

3. Take a break:

Take breaks and sit down. Both literally and figuratively. Do not try to keep up with the young, seasoned nurses who fly around the departments like they are on rollerblades.

It is acceptable if you need to sit down or cannot keep up while on rotations and are pregnant. You are growing a human and may need to take a break from your clinical site if it becomes too much to keep up with.

Take a leave of absence to regroup and be the best student-nurse clinician you can be.

Positive Tips about pregnant in nursing school:

1. Procrastination is Dangerous:

Even if you aren’t pregnant, this is a must! To-do lists are never-ending; the best way to stay on top of them is not to delay.

The more assignments you finish for your program, the less worried you will be about schedule changes and time management.

Procrastination is a sure way to fail in nursing school while pregnant. It makes completing an assignment a burden rather than a grace.

2. Be active:

Exercise is a great way to relieve stress while pregnant and in nursing school.

Consult your doctor before exercising while pregnant. While exercise is generally beneficial to both you and your baby, there are times when it is not advised.

If you are cleared to exercise, schedule it into your busy schedule. This can help you recharge your brain after a long day of studying.

3. Have a Meal Menu:

Plan your meals and have ready-to-eat food when you are short on time or pregnant.

Once you get into a routine of how much food to cook and when to prepare it can greatly improve your performance and minimize stress while pregnant in nursing school.

4. Plan ahead:

Nursing school is costly. Pregnancy and childrearing are also costly. It’s unnerving to have them overlap. Making and sticking to a budget can greatly impact your future as a pregnant nursing student.

Budgeting now may mean skipping a few out-of-town meals or buying used textbooks, but it will pay dividends.

Knowing your expenses versus your family’s income can help you make important decisions now and shift your focus from spending to saving.

5. Report to the School:

There is no reason to keep this from your nursing school. They may have had pregnant students in the past and can share what was done to help them or give you advice.

Educating faculty and staff about your pregnancy can help you avoid CMV and other viruses.

Negative Tips about pregnant in nursing school:

1. Body System irregularity:

While in nursing school, your hormones may be rogue. Don’t let them win. Read up on the shifts of the body during pregnancy and how to manage them.

The internet is full of great information about pregnancy and what to do, but unfortunately, there is also a lot of misinformation out there. Never be afraid to ask your obstetrician-gynecologist questions or express concerns.

Uncontrollable or inconvenient, knowing what to expect can help you react and handle situations better. To gain the support you need, always be honest with your obstetrician-gynecologist.

2. Avoid forbidden foods in school:

This can cause uncomfortable symptoms or lengthy doctor visits for you and your baby. If you’re pregnant, educate yourself before eating whatever is most convenient.

3. Avoid hot tubs and Baths:

Pregnant women should avoid hot tubs and really hot baths.

Bathing is a great way to relax while pregnant in nursing school, but certain precautions should be addressed. Reducing stress is important, but not at the expense of the infant.

4. Go to the Dentist:

Pregnancy in nursing school can take a lot of time, energy, thoughts, and money, but one big thing you want to plan for is all your normal routine doctor visits. Keep your dental appointments.

This may seem like an appropriate time to skip out on “luxury” appointments because of the stress and commitment of being pregnant in nursing school, but there can be health risks involved with skipping these appointments.

FAQs on Pregnant in Nursing School

Can I continue nursing school while pregnant?

Yes, many women continue their nursing education while pregnant. However, it’s essential to communicate with your school and instructors about your situation to make necessary accommodations.

Are there any risks involved in clinical rotations during pregnancy?

Clinical rotations might involve standing for extended periods, lifting, and potential exposure to illnesses. While many pregnant students successfully complete their rotations, consulting with your healthcare provider and following safety protocols is crucial.

How can I manage the physical demands and study load of nursing school during pregnancy?

Prioritizing tasks, taking regular breaks, getting ample rest, and seeking support from family, friends, and school resources can be helpful. Flexibility and open communication with instructors can also make the journey smoother.

Will my nursing school offer accommodations for my pregnancy?

Many schools have policies to support pregnant students, offering accommodations like extended breaks or alternate assignments. It’s essential to check with your specific institution and ensure you understand their guidelines.

Conclusion:

If you are pregnant or want to get pregnant, attending nursing school is a definite possibility.

So, if you are pregnant, or if you are reading this and believe you may be pregnant, relax and take a long breath and you will be OK. Nursing school is still an option for you.

Awesome one; I hope this article answers your question.

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