Os desafios da Maternidade e a Graduação: Estudantes que se tornam Mães

Abstract

This study encompasses the inherent complexities of the experience students who undergo motherhood during their undergraduate studies. It aimed to understand the challenges of balancing motherhood with academic life. The choice of this theme is justified by the need to investigate a reality that often transcends the boundaries of family life, directly impacting the academic trajectory and professional development of women. Methodologically, a documentary and exploratory bibliographic review was conducted, in line with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through a questionnaire, followed by an online interview via the Google Meet platform, which was recorded and transcribed. The research included the participation of five studentmothers from a public university in Uberlândia: three from the Physical Education program and two from the Physiotherapy program. As a result, it was possible to identify several barriers faced by student-mothers, such as difficulties in academic performance, participation in extracurricular activities, meeting deadlines and increased dropout rates. It was concluded that, given the the absence of formal institutional policies, support networks become indispensable, playing a fundamental role through the collaboration of family, friends, classmates and professors.