The 'Dads Matter Act' Wants to Get Fathers Into Prenatal Appointments to Boost Mom and Baby Health

The “Dads Matter Act of 2025” is straightforward: it aims to formally integrate fathers into the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum process nationwide. The core idea, backed by Congressional findings in Section 2, is that when dads are actively involved, health outcomes improve dramatically for both the mother and the baby. Specifically, the bill is built around two major actions: a national public awareness campaign and official guidance for healthcare providers on how to include fathers.

The Case for Paternal Involvement

This isn't just about good feelings; it’s about measurable health benefits. The bill highlights that when fathers attend prenatal appointments, mothers are 1.5 times more likely to get their first check-up during the crucial first trimester. This early engagement is linked to lower rates of premature births, healthier birth weights, and better maternal mental health, including reduced postpartum depression and anxiety. For busy parents juggling work and family, this means a better chance at a healthier start for the whole family, potentially reducing costly medical complications down the road. The findings also emphasize that a dad supporting breastfeeding makes it more successful and that including fathers in discussions about safe sleep can prevent infant deaths.

The National Awareness Campaign: Making Dads Visible

Under Section 3, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) must launch a public awareness campaign within two years of the bill's enactment. This campaign is designed to push back against any cultural norms that sideline fathers during this critical time. It won't just be a general message; it has to cover specific topics that directly affect real-world outcomes. For example, the campaign must educate the public on the benefits of skin-to-skin contact between father and newborn, how fathers can support the mother's mental health, and even the reality of paternal postpartum depression—yes, dads can get it too, and the campaign aims to raise awareness about it. It also focuses on teaching fathers how to recognize serious maternal complications like preeclampsia or preterm labor, transforming them into informed advocates for their partner's health.

Training the Professionals: Guidance for Doctors and Hospitals

Section 4 is where the rubber meets the road for the healthcare system. Within one year, HHS must issue guidance to states on how to train healthcare staff—from OB-GYNs to pediatricians—on father inclusion. This means your doctor’s office might start looking a little different. The guidance will instruct providers on offering support and education specifically tailored for fathers, especially in communities where this hasn't been the norm. The training must cover practical skills like how to support breastfeeding, safe sleep practices, and basic baby soothing techniques. Crucially, the guidance also tells practitioners to screen fathers for depression and refer them for treatment if necessary. For a new dad, this means the doctor's visit isn't just about the baby and mom anymore; it’s about ensuring the whole family unit, including the father's mental health, is stable and supported.

Accountability Check: The GAO Study

Finally, Section 5 builds in an accountability measure. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is required to conduct a study and submit a report on the effectiveness of the entire Act within six years. This means the government will be checking back to see if the awareness campaigns and provider guidance actually moved the needle on those key health metrics, like prenatal visit attendance and rates of postpartum depression. It’s a built-in mechanism to ensure these new programs are actually delivering the promised benefits to families.