Pseudocyesis: Unbelievable 'False Pregnancy' Explained by Gynecologist

• Pseudocyesis, or false pregnancy, is a rare condition where a woman believes she is pregnant and exhibits physical symptoms, despite no actual fetus.
• Dr. Nirmala M, a gynecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Whitefield, Bengaluru, highlights symptoms like menstrual cessation, abdominal enlargement, breast pain, nausea, and fatigue.
• Hormonal changes can cause weight gain and breast milk secretion, reinforcing the belief of pregnancy.
• Causes are complex, often linked to psychological factors such as infertility, recurrent miscarriages, social pressure to conceive, or profound stress.
• Diagnosis confirmation via ultrasound and blood tests can lead to grief, shame, anxiety, or depression, emphasizing the need for empathetic communication and psychological support.

Why It Matters: Pseudocyesis is a rare medical and psychological condition requiring empathetic diagnosis and support for recovery.