Black women can’t do it all: Centering Black fathers in reproductive health research
Abortion and contraception
Awarded 2025
Emerging Scholars in Family Planning
Diamond Cunningham, MPH
Tulane University
$7,500

This study examines the understudied perspectives of Black fathers in Louisiana regarding abortion and contraception within the context of the fourth trimester. Despite extensive research on maternal perspectives, paternal viewpoints remain largely unexplored, particularly among Black men. Louisiana presents a compelling research environment due to its restrictive reproductive health policies and significant racial disparities in maternal and infant outcomes, with Black women experiencing 3.5 times higher mortality than white women. Using a mixed-methods sequential exploratory design, this study will conduct focus groups with Black fathers (n=32-48) to identify knowledge gaps and engagement barriers, followed by a comprehensive statewide survey (n=450) assessing contraceptive knowledge, abortion awareness, and perceived decision-making roles. The investigation aims to: (1) document baseline knowledge of contraceptive methods and abortion options, (2) explore how Black fathers conceptualize their roles in family planning decisions, and (3) analyze geographic variations in attitudes across different Louisiana parishes. This research addresses critical gaps in the literature while acknowledging that it does not place the onus on Black fathers for systemic failures in reproductive healthcare. Rather, it recognizes that Black women have been exhausting their capacities as reproductive justice advocates, and before developing interventions based on assumptions, an empirical foundation regarding Black fathers’ perspectives is essential. Findings will inform provider training on partner inclusion, highlight knowledge gaps requiring targeted education, and identify opportunities for more effective family planning interventions. This work represents a critical step toward developing more comprehensive, culturally responsive reproductive health approaches in Louisiana.