What is already known about this topic?
Men are less likely than are women to seek health care services and are more likely to engage in higher risk health behaviors.
What is added by this report?
Fewer than one half (48%) of surveyed recent fathers in Puerto Rico had a health care visit for themselves in the 12 months before their newborn’s birth; however, most attended prenatal care visits with their partner (87%), were present at the birth (83%), and purchased infant supplies (94%).
What are the implications for public health practice?
The perinatal period represents an opportunity for public health messaging that encourages men to increase attention to their own health and the role they can play in supporting their families’ overall health and well-being.