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

NC Family Health Resource Line Information and Support Within Your Reach

Find out more about , NC Family Health Resource Line or call Monday - Friday 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. closed holidays TTY for the hearing impaired: 1-800-976-1922 Services in English and Spanish

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: September 2008