by Dr. Chan Lowe » Tue Sep 30, 2008 3:13 pm
Hello Katebreeze,
In general, questions are not asked about the father during pregnancy/delivery. Depending on the mother's blood type, the baby may be tested to look for any possible antibody formation issues (known as A,B,O incompatibility). Often, at birth, features of the baby are indistinct and don't necessarily correlate with the mother and father.
If, mom's blood type is O, often the baby will be tested. If dad happens to know his blood type there could potentially be a conflict that would indicate the father is not the biological father. (E.g. mom is O and Dad is B, meaning the only combinations for baby would be O or B. If baby were A, it would indicate there was a different father.)
This can be a difficult situation. Paternity testing is available to help determine more definitively if you desire. Depending on your relationship and the openness of this situation, you may want to discuss the issue with your husband. Some couples decide not to test and to assume that dad is the dad without questioning it. I certainly am in no position to offer advice in this area, though, since the internet is very impersonal.
Best wishes. You may also want to discuss this with your OB.
Advice and opinions given are based on the information provided and must not be used as an official medical recommendation. The limitations of the internet prevent an appropriate evaluation. Always consult your doctor if there is concern.
