If this is what we're doing, let's do it. I mean, I get it, as it sits women (and other afab folks), do technically hold the "power" (and the entire physical and financial burden) of deciding if a pregnancy is terminated. Men think that is unfair (not in that they want to do any of the work it takes to carry a pregnancy to term, but because they're appalled at not being the decision maker). Maybe it is?
So let's be fair as we move forward, shall we? Or as fair as possible anyway.
Men need to start paying child support from the estimated day of conception. If there is any question of parentage, there needs to be testing done at birth. Whoever's ejaculate resulted in the pregnancy would need to payback for the entire pregnancy.
Currently women (and other afab people) have no choice but to risk their physical and mental health, as well as their lives, to carry a pregnancy to term. So the financial burden of medical bills needs to be the sole responsibility of the person who caused the pregnancy. That needs to include everything from the first doctor visit to the postpartum check up. And following that, if any medical condition or health problem arises later in life that can be tied to pregnancy, the person who caused the pregnancy needs to be financially responsible for half of any medical expenses incurred.
The person who caused the pregnancy also needs to be required to attend every prenatal and postnatal appointment. As well as be present and available during birth and the six weeks or so following that. If the carrying partner does not want them to attend the actual check up, they can wait in the lobby.
Lastly, ANY instances of missed child support payments results in charges of child neglect/abandonment.
It's only fair, afterall.
