“As a gynaecologist, one of the rare yet deeply sensitive conditions I encounter is false pregnancy, medically known as pseudocyesis,” says Dr Nirmala M., Consultant, Obstetrician, Gynaecologist & Fertility Specialist, Motherhood Hospitals, Whitefield, Bengaluru.
False pregnancy occurs when a woman firmly believes she is pregnant and develops several physical signs of pregnancy, despite the absence of an actual foetus. According to Dr. Nirmala, common symptoms include missed periods, abdominal enlargement, breast tenderness, nausea, fatigue, and in rare cases, even the sensation of foetal movements. “Hormonal changes may also lead to weight gain and milk secretion, further reinforcing the belief of pregnancy,” she explains.
The causes of pseudocyesis
are complex and multifactorial. Dr. Nirmala notes that the condition is often linked to intense emotional factors. “Women experiencing infertility, repeated miscarriages, strong social or familial pressure to conceive, or profound emotional stress may be more vulnerable,” she says. Psychological stress can influence the brain’s hormonal regulation, triggering physical changes that closely mimic pregnancy. In some cases, underlying medical conditions such as hormonal imbalances, ovarian cysts, or uterine fibroids may also contribute to misleading symptoms.
The emotional impact following a diagnosis of false pregnancy can be significant. “When investigations such as ultrasound scans and blood tests confirm the absence of pregnancy, patients may experience grief, embarrassment, anxiety, or even depression,” explains Dr. Nirmala. She emphasises that how the diagnosis is communicated plays a crucial role in recovery. “It is essential that this condition is explained with empathy, sensitivity, and reassurance, ensuring the woman feels supported rather than judged.”
With timely medical evaluation and compassionate psychological support, most women are able to process the experience and recover emotionally. As Dr. Nirmala highlights, understanding pseudocyesis as a medical and psychological condition rather than a personal failing is key to healing and restoring emotional wellbeing.
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