A Nigerian medical professional recently sparked widespread interest and amusement online by discussing a rare phenomenon where men display symptoms resembling those of their pregnant partners.
Known on X (formerly Twitter) as @Mrbearded, the doctor explained that some expectant fathers experience both physical and emotional changes that closely parallel those of their pregnant spouses.
These symptoms can range from nausea, vomiting, mood swings, and weight gain to persistent tiredness. In more extreme instances, men may even report sensations akin to labor pains and intense fatigue.
In his commentary, the physician noted:
“When a woman is expecting, her partner may start to show signs similar to hers. He could feel queasy, put on weight, or undergo emotional ups and downs. This condition is referred to as COUVADE SYNDROME.”
He further explained that elements such as empathy, psychological stress, and hormonal fluctuations in men might trigger these symptoms, enabling them to share in the pregnancy experience both mentally and physically.
The conversation gained traction after Solomon Buchi responded to Miraji, who had criticized a man for expressing that men often feel neglected during their wives’ pregnancies and that they too undergo emotional challenges.
The topic quickly went viral, eliciting reactions that ranged from disbelief to curiosity and humor. Many men admitted to having experienced similar symptoms without knowing there was a medical explanation behind it.
Check out the original tweet below…
