UAMS is committed to maintaining a safe and non-discriminatory learning and working environment for all members of our University community. This includes providing support and resources to those who are pregnant, parenting, or experiencing related conditions. UAMS encourages students who are pregnant to disclose this information to the Office of Disability Services if they are seeking accommodations. Employees should contact the Department of People and Culture for information regarding pregnancy accommodations.
The US Department of Education’s regulation implementing Title IX specifically prohibits discrimination against a student based on pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, or recovery from any of these conditions. If you are a pregnant or parenting student, UAMS has resources to help you.
Title IX and Pregnancy
The Title IX regulation, at 34 C.F.R. § 106.31(a), states as follows: “Except as provided elsewhere in this part, no person shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any academic, extracurricular, research, occupational training, or other education program or activity operated by a recipient which receives Federal financial assistance.”
Specifically, Title IX prohibits discrimination against a student based on pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, or recovery from any of these conditions. Title IX also ensures the right to take medically necessary leave and to be free of harassment, intimidation, or other discrimination because of pregnancy-related conditions.
What does this mean for you as a Student?
Students must be allowed to take time off of school for pregnancy, childbirth, miscarriage, abortion, and/or recovery for as long as their doctor says is medically necessary. That could mean a few absences for necessary medical appointments or a longer leave of absence for a high-risk pregnancy or childbirth. This rule applies even if taking medically necessary leave would require an absence for longer than the school’s leave policy ordinarily allows. Students cannot be penalized for taking leave and must be able to return to school in the same status they held before taking leave.
Does the university have designated areas for mothers to breastfeed, pump milk, or address other needs related to breastfeeding throughout the day?
Yes, here is a list of designated lactation spaces on campus.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Title IX Coordinator
titleix@uams.edu
501-526-5641
EDII 2/109