Exploring the Experiences of Pregnant Graduate Students

This phenomenological study seeks to document the lived experiences of pregnant graduate students. Feminist theory and intersectionality will be used to analyze the social supports, social experiences and communication about the availability of resources for pregnant graduate students based on participant answers. Specifically, information about what university support is available to pregnant students was sought. Participants were also asked for their suggestions on social supports for pregnant graduate students. Participants reported the need for a system to help pregnant and parenting students to connect within their campus and across campuses, expanded social supports during pregnancy and the postpartum period such as miscarriage support, and clearly communicated program and university wide policies regarding pregnancy. Two participants discussed how becoming mothers positively impacted their role as researchers and academics. The need for more accessibility on campus and more virtual and hybrid options for pregnant students was highlighted. Results suggest a shift towards acceptance and celebration of pregnant bodies in academia. The role of graduate student unions in helping pregnant graduate students was also discussed. Clinical and systemic applications for family therapists and education policy are recommended.