Pregnancy and Parenthood Advisor

Commanding Officers are strongly encouraged to establish the command collateral duty of a Pregnancy and Parenthood Advisor (PAPA). The primary responsibility of the command PAPA is to ensure pregnant servicewomen and servicemen who are expectant fathers receive proper counseling and guidance in order for the service member to understand their rights, responsibilities, and the opportunities afforded to them as parents in the Navy to successfully balance the demands of a naval career with their family plans and responsibilities.

PAPA expectations include, but are not limited to:

Ensuring all service members are aware of the many services available to them as they make the transition into parenthood.
Serving as the main point of contact for any service member, regardless of pregnancy or parenthood status, for questions and concerns regarding pregnancy and parenthood rights and services.
Ensuring pregnant servicewomen and expectant servicemen are aware of, and receive counseling services from professionals, as applicable, for each pregnancy and/or additional child.

The following references are provided to help assist the PAPA and to provide the most up-to-date information and resources.

PAPA Checklist

Sample Pregnancy Availability Message

SECNAVDES Ex-Service Maternity Care Forms

BUMEDNOTE 6000 - Single Parent Service Members

NAVMED 6000 - Needs Assessment for At-Risk Pregnancy

Family Care Plan (FCP) Policy

Paternity Leave Policy

Pregnancy and Parenthood Policy

Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) Op Guide: Managing PFA Records for Pregnant Servicewomen

EDUCATION:

Sexual Health and Responsibility Program (SHARP)