It's always surprising to see why photos go viral online and the impact they have on other people. In the case of Chontel Duncan and Natalie Smith, a picture of two pregnant women became a phenomenon.

Though the two women were equally pregnant, the photo showed a major difference between them. Duncan was extremely slim while Smith looked like the typical representation of pregnant women. So why do people care so much and why was there so much backlash?

The shock of seeing Duncan so thin was most likely the reason for the viral phenomenon. Criticism from social media was intense, as most people couldn't believe a women so thin could be pregnant.

The picture, which was posted four months ago and was reposted Sunday, continues to receive commentary from the digital community, as people continue to contribute negative feedback. Some argue that Smith is simply overweight, while others contend Duncan could never have been pregnant with such a small stomach. With over 3,000 likes and 700 comments as of Monday morning, the picture continues to be a popular subject online.

Natalie Smith Comments on Photo

Months after the photo was taken, the two women have been in the news talking about the story. Smith, who already had her child, discussed her experience on the "Today Show."

"I couldn't think why one photo of two beautiful women would be so popular, so quickly, all over the world," Smith said. "I personally think that people see two women pregnant and are quick to judge ... Chontel is a lot taller and it's her first pregnancy, and I'm a lot shorter and it was my third pregnancy. Everyone carries different. You can't choose the way your body changes with pregnancy- it's a beautiful experience."

Duncan did not comment, but she has since been active on her social media account sharing updates on her pregnancy, as well as her workouts and tips to keep fit and active. There are videos of her kickboxing while pregnant, and others show her working out at the gym. She has also shared her diet tips with her fans and has acquired over 270,000 followers on Instagram.

Duncan has not yet had her child, but according to her social media pages, she expects the child to be born on March 30. Fans will soon see what her child looks like and if indeed the child suffers from malnutrition as most comments have suggested. Still, the pregnancy is likely healthy, and many will likely learn from Duncan how to be healthy and fit during the nine months.

Related