Did a positive pregnancy test rock your world with the news that you’re expecting? This time may feel like a rollercoaster of emotions, with pressure to make a quick decision about your pregnancy. You may wonder, “How can I finish my degree? How can I afford prenatal care without health insurance? How can I parent alone?”
The truth is, you are capable of conquering even the biggest challenges. When equipped with resources and a tribe of support, you are unstoppable.
Below, we’ll unpack and expose 5 common myths about pregnancy and parenthood. No matter what you feel the world may be telling you, you can earn your degree. You can get prenatal care. You are not alone.
Myth #1: You can’t finish school if you’re pregnant or parenting.
The two pink lines of a positive pregnancy test may feel like a major roadblock to graduating. The truth is, many women complete their degrees while pregnant or parenting. Genine came to The Pregnancy Network and found the support she needed to reach her goals:
“I did it! I graduated, and not only graduated, I graduated with honors. I did exactly what you said I could do.”
You don’t have to choose between being a great student and being a great mom. Title IX provides legal protection for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The law requires schools to provide services and accommodations to meet your needs, as well as excuse absences for pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions.
At The Pregnancy Network, we can help you make a plan to ensure you have the support and resources you need to meet your educational goals during your pregnancy.
Myth #2: You can’t get prenatal care without health insurance.
One of the most common questions we get at The Pregnancy Network, is “how can I afford prenatal care if I don’t have health insurance?”
Pregnancy Medicaid is available for women without health insurance, and will cover the costs of your prenatal care and delivery. At your appointment, we can walk you through how to enroll in Pregnancy Medicaid. If you are not eligible to enroll in Pregnancy Medicaid, you may be eligible to receive low cost medical care through Guilford county’s Adopt-A-Mom program.
Myth #3: Single parenting means parenting alone.
They say “it takes a village to raise a child.” We agree if you’re pregnant or parenting you deserve a village. This village may or may not include the baby’s father – but that doesn’t mean you have to parent alone. We will help you. The Connect Mentorship program was designed to offer you ongoing support. Our Pregnancy 101 and Parenting 101 classes are also great ways to build a support network of women in your community. Here’s what women had to say about classes at The Pregnancy Network:
“It was nice to feel less alone.”
Laura
“I’m incredibly thankful for the women I met and the things that I learned.”
Mariah
“I truly enjoyed meeting the staff and other expecting parents. The classes are very informative and the staff are very friendly and loving.”
Cynthia
Myth #4: You need to be financially stable to raise a child.
Our staff and volunteers understand firsthand what it’s like to be pregnant before you have an established career or the home you’d hoped for. While well-intentioned, the goal of feeling “financially stable” before starting a family can often be an elusive goal and an ever-moving target. The truth is, you don’t need the most expensive baby gear for your son or daughter to be loved and well cared for.
When you attend our Pregnancy 101 and Parenting 101 classes, you will receive many of the essential baby items you’ll need.
Myth #5: You shouldn’t grow your family during a global pandemic.
The Pregnancy Network developed a Response And Action Plan Regarding COVID-19 in order to protect your health and safety. Many prenatal care providers have also made adjustments to protect their clients from the risk of exposure to the virus. At our Pregnancy 101 class, we can walk you through what to expect at your delivery, and the precautions in place to protect your health. You won’t be navigating COVID-19 and pregnancy alone.
“They presented a great class even in the midst of COVID-19, where I learned so much and connected with so many moms! Going to miss this experience. They’re an awesome support system from beginning (my first ultrasound) to end (at 8 months pregnant) with countless resources and new connections to call on.”
Essence S.
Don’t believe the myths. You can do this. If you think you may be pregnant, we’re here to talk with you about your options, and help you create a plan for success. Make an appointment for our free services, to find out more about our classes, mentorship program and resources.
Kacey Minor
Kacey is the Communications Assistant at The Pregnancy Network.