A father’s role during pregnancy has traditionally been seen as that of the provider, while their nurturing and supportive roles are often overlooked. Is a father’s role in pregnancy limited to financial support? Emerging research suggests that a father’s involvement during pregnancy has a positive impact on maternal health behaviors including: increased likelihood of early prenatal care; decreased smoking and drug use; and decreased maternal psychosocial stressors which have been shown to lead to poor pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, promoting a father’s involvement during the perinatal period may decrease the proportion of infants born at low birth weight or preterm, potentially reducing the black-white disparity in infant mortality.  

GCYF held an in-depth webinar exploring the importance of paternal inclusion in maternal and child health. Participants learned about the newly formed Commission on Paternal Involvement in Pregnancy Outcomes (CPIPO) and their work to improve the involvement of expectant fathers in pregnancy and family health, including recommendations to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in pregnancy.  

This webinar:

• Explored the role of expectant fathers during pregnancy

• Examined current research on the impact of paternal involvement in pregnancy 

• Discussed the obstacles and challenges to paternal prenatal support

• Highlighted promising practices supporting the involvement of fathers in pregnancy and family health

• Explored the role of grantmakers in strengthening supports for paternal involvement in maternal and child health  

Presenters:

• Jermane Bond, Ph.D., Research Associate, Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, Health Policy Institute, Member, Commission on Paternal Involvement in Pregnancy Outcomes

• Stacey Cunningham, MSW, MPH, Executive Director, National Healthy Start Association

• Willie Parker, MD, MPH, Medical Director, Planned Parenthood, Washington, D.C.

• Roland Warren, MBA, President, National Fatherhood Initiative, Member, Commission on Paternal Involvement in Pregnancy Outcomes
  

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