Adjustments for Pregnant and/or Breastfeeding Students
In compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, Minnesota State University, Mankato prohibits discrimination in its educational programs and activities based on sex. This includes pregnancy and related conditions. Any complaints of harassment or discrimination due to pregnancy should be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (Morris Hall 014, 507-389-2986).
Students who are pregnant or breastfeeding may request adjustments based on general pregnancy or breastfeeding needs, or ADA disability accommodations based on a pregnancy-related complication through the Accessibility Resources office. Adjustments may include extensions for assignments, schedule changes, reasonable breaks to express milk, excused absences from class, furniture adjustments, and food/drink allowed in class.
To get started….
- If pregnancy-related adjustments are needed, we ask that you provide documentation to guide our office in determining what is appropriate. This Request for Adjustments (PDF) form should be completed by your health provider.
- Upon receipt of this supporting paperwork, we will email to invite you to a meeting with staff in Accessibility Resources.
Absences and Making up Missed Work
Students absent for medically necessary reasons related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding are allowed to return to the same academic status as before the absences and to make up missed work, including any missed participation-related points, as long as the student’s doctor deems the absence medically necessary. Instructor’s attendance and make-up work rules generally cannot override these legal requirements.
Lactation Rooms
Space is available on the MSU, Mankato campus for students, staff, and faculty to breastfeed or pump milk in a private and clean individual room at the following locations:
- The CSU Lactation Station is located in the women’s restroom across from the Women’s Center (CSU218) in the north corridor of the CSU upper level.
- A Lactation Room is located on the lower level of the library in the northeast corner, on the wall directly across from the stairs and to the right. It is an individual room that is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The window on the door has been obscured.
- The Women's Center (CSU218) serves as a lactation space; they also provide supplies like milk storage bags, nursing pads, and a refrigerator to store breastmilk.
Resources Available for Pregnant and Parenting Students
FAQ Pregnant and Breastfeeding Students' Rights
MSU, Mankato Women’s Center Resources
There are several excellent resources listed on this MSU, Mankato website, including information on local health care and child care options: Community Resources for Non-Traditional Students
