Masculine Maternity

In northern Nigeria’s Borno State, Mohammed Bukar used to believe his wife’s diet during pregnancy didn’t need special attention. Cultural norms in his community meant men decided how women cared for children. When humanitarian organisation FHI 360 introduced father‑to‑father support groups, Bukar joined out of curiosity. The group met twice a month to discuss hygiene, early breastfeeding and maternal nutrition. They encouraged men to help with household chores so mothers had more time to rest. The results were remarkable. According to an analysis by FHI 360 and USAID, more than 96 percent of households where fathers participated practised exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, compared with 57 percent of households without participating fathers. Early breastfeeding initiation, giving colostrum as the first food and timely complementary feeding were all significantly higher in these homes. Fathers who joined the groups also provided extra food during their partner’s pregnanc...

What if you walked into a busy antenatal clinic in Lagos and saw men standing side‑by‑side with their pregnant wives — not just carrying wallets and car keys, but clapping along to the songs, waiting patiently for the midwife, taking notes and handing over money for vitamins? A few years ago this would have seemed unusual in Nigeria, where pregnancy has long been treated as a “women’s domain.” Yet on a bright February morning in 2025 at the Alimosho General Hospital, journalist Oluwakemi Adelagun noticed something different: men were there, watching their wives stretch and sing and waiting quietly at the edge of the shed. They weren’t just dropping them off. They were present. A Premium Times investigation published on 14 May 2025 documented this quiet revolution. Men like Chibueze Okoli, a self‑employed father, and Kelvin, an Uber driver, now accompany their wives to antenatal appointments because flexible work schedules and supportive partners make it possible. On ...

 Compassion is often stereotyped as a “female” quality, but science shows it’s a human trait that transcends gender. Both men and women are wired for empathy and care, thanks to the way our brains and hormones work. Understanding the science of compassion reveals how it benefits individuals and society as a whole. The Science Behind Compassion 1. The Brain and Empathy: The brain’s mirror neurons help us feel what others are experiencing, enabling compassion. These neural pathways are present in everyone, regardless of gender. 2. Hormones and Care: While oxytocin, known as the “love hormone,” plays a significant role in compassion, men also produce it, especially in bonding and caregiving situations. 3. Evolutionary Roots: Compassionate behavior is hardwired in humans to promote survival. Both men and women have historically relied on nurturing and cooperation to protect their communities. Compassion Beyond Stereotypes 1. Breaking Gender Norms: Compassion is often associated with fe...

Growing up in Nigeria, I was surrounded by cultural norms that made maternity care seem like a woman’s world. From pregnancy to childbirth, men were often considered outsiders, uninvolved in the process except for providing financial support. As I delved deeper into midwifery and personal growth, I realized how much harm these beliefs have caused—not only to women but to families as a whole. Let me share some myths I’ve encountered about men in maternity care and why I, as a man deeply involved in this field, believe they are completely wrong. Myth 1: “Maternity care is a woman’s responsibility.” This was something I believed for years. Society taught me that pregnancy and childbirth were “women’s issues,” and my role was limited to financial provision. What Changed My Mind: As a student midwife, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for fathers to support their partners during pregnancy. I’ve watched men who attended antenatal appointments and actively participated in care improve t...