Pregnancy
Get dad involved

Although only women get pregnant and give birth, men have babies too! Here are some things men can do to help their partners have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Get Involved During Pregnancy

• Go to prenatal (doctor) appointments
• Talk, read or sing to the baby everyday
• Give the baby a nickname
• Listen to the baby's heartbeat
• Feel the baby kick or stretch
• Help create a safe, smoke-free home
• Be patient – let mom get extra rest
• Share the load - help mom with housework
• Help mom save money for the future

Be Healthy and Supportive

• Get a yearly check-up. Have your doctor check for STDs and other infections that could be passed on. For more information about STD's and pregnancy, visit STDs and Pregnancy - CDC Fact Sheet.
• Talk with mom before having sex - it doesn't hurt the baby but may be uncomfortable for her
• Be careful how you touch and talk - no pushing, shoving, yelling or hitting
• Get regular exercise
• Help mom stay away from cigarettes, other people's cigarette smoke, alcohol and other drugs

Other Links

North Carolina

The Fatherhood Resource Center - providing access to North Carolina and national resources for dads.

National

National Fatherhood Initiative - Dedicated to improving the well-being of children by helping dads become involved, responsible, and committed fathers.

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Last updated: October 2011