About Pregnant and Parenting

Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. This includes protections related to pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy loss (miscarriage or termination), lactation, and related medical conditions.

Title IX may also apply to parenting when sex-based discrimination or gender stereotypes about caregiving affect a student’s or employee’s access to education or employment.

These protections apply to:

• Students (undergraduate, graduate, online, in-person)

• Student employees

• Faculty and staff

• Applicants for admission or employment

Protections apply regardless of marital status, gender identity, or whether a formal complaint is filed.

No. Supportive measures and reasonable adjustments may be provided with or without the filing of a formal Title IX complaint.

The goal is to ensure equal access to education and employment, not to require participation in a disciplinary process.

Supportive measures are individualized and may include:

• Excused absences related to pregnancy or childbirth

• Flexible attendance or participation

• Extended deadlines or rescheduled exams

• Temporary remote participation when appropriate

• Physical adjustments (larger seating, elevator access)

• Breaks for restroom use, eating, hydration, or lactation

• Leave of absence with reinstatement to prior academic or employment status

• Adjustments related to parenting responsibilities when sex-based discrimination is implicated

All adjustments are coordinated through the Office of Title IX.

Albany State University provides access to clean, private, non-bathroom spaces for lactation, as required by federal law.

Students and employees may request lactation accommodations through the Office of Title IX. The Title IX Office coordinates access, scheduling, and any related academic or workplace adjustments.

Parenting itself is not a protected class. However, Title IX applies when parenting or caregiving responsibilities result in sex-based discrimination or unequal treatment.

Examples include:

• Different treatment of mothers and fathers

• Gender-based assumptions about caregiving roles

• Policies or practices that disproportionately impact one sex due to parenting responsibilities

Medical documentation may only be requested if it is required of all individuals with temporary medical conditions.

Pregnancy, childbirth, or lactation-related needs cannot be singled out for additional documentation requirements.

No. Students may not be forced to withdraw, take leave, or enroll in alternative programs due to pregnancy or parenting status.

Any leave or alternative arrangement must be voluntary and coordinated with the Office of Title IX.

Harassment or discrimination related to pregnancy, lactation, or parenting may violate Title IX.

You may:

• Contact the Office of Title IX for supportive measures

• File a formal Title IX complaint

• Access confidential or privileged resources

• Report concerns to the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights

Retaliation for reporting concerns is strictly prohibited.

Resources may include:

• Office of Title IX (coordination of accommodations and support)

• Student Health Services (main and West Campus)

• Counseling and wellness services

• Childcare support programs (such as CCAMPIS, if eligible)

• Academic advising and student support services

The Title IX Office can assist with referrals and coordination.

For questions, referrals, or to request pregnancy, parenting, or lactation support, contact the Title IX Office.