Guy's Only

So you just found out that your partner is pregnant. It is not just about her -- you are an important person in the picture. What you choose to do during this time will have a life-long impact on your partner as well as on yourself.


Your Involvement

What rights does the father have in relation to abortion?
The father has no rights in regards to abortion, even if you are married. This means that you cannot legally force her to have an abortion or not have an abortion.

What can I do to help her with her abortion decision?
Provide thorough and accurate information regarding procedures, risks –– both physical and emotional. Show her that you care about her and are concerned that she makes a healthy choice for herself and the unborn child.

What rights does the father have in relation to adoption?
Generally, the father has rights in regard to the adoption of his child, which include receiving notice of the adoption and being given an opportunity to contest the adoption.

I feel so helpless; she’s the one carrying the baby. What can I do to help?
There are several things you can do to be a part of the pregnancy.

1.
 Educate yourself –– keep up on fetal development, changes in a woman’s body, types of food that provide good nutrition, how to prepare for childbirth and parenting. These topics will give you and the mother plenty to discuss and it will help you be apart of the process. See our news and events button at the top for times and places of two new classes specifically for Dads. Dr. Dad and 24/7 Dad being offered now at CareNet Pregnancy Centers
2.
 Go to her appointments –– even if it’s only to provide transportation. Make this a priority. This will give you a chance to see the doctor and to hear his comments and instructions. Hearing the baby’s heart beat and seeing him or her on the ultrasound is an event you don’t want to miss.
3.
Evaluate the facts, risks, and your values. Thoughtfully investigate and discuss all available alternatives.
• Identify the problem
• List alternative courses of action
• Gather information helpful in reaching a decision
• Consider the results of each decision
• Consider the risks in making each decision
• Study your values in relation to how you make a decision and how you would carry it out
• Reach a conclusion you believe is best

Why is my girlfriend acting so differently? Is this normal? The mother of your child has many hormonal changes happening in her body. These hormones can make her extra tired, irritable, prone to tears and much more. The key for you to remember is to be patient. This condition is only temporary.

I feel so helpless; she’s the one carrying the baby. What can I do to help?
There are several things you can do to be a part of the pregnancy.

•
Identify the problem
•
List alternative courses of action
•
Gather information helpful in reaching a decision
•
Consider the results of each decision
•
Consider the risks in making each decision
•
Study your values in relation to how you make a decision and how you would carry it out
•
Reach a conclusion you believe is best


Remember you need all the facts to come up with a good decision.