Psychological pregnancy, also known as pseudocyesis or imaginary pregnancy, is a rare but significant phenomenon in the field of psychology and mental health. It is characterized by the presence of symptoms that simulate a real pregnancy in a person who is not really pregnant. This disorder can cause confusion and distress in those who experience it, as well as their loved ones and health professionals who care for them.
What is pregnancy psychological?
Psychological pregnancy is a psychological disorder in which a person presents the typical symptoms of a real pregnancy, such as amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), weight gain, nausea, enlarged abdomen and fetal movements perceived, among others, despite not having conceived a baby. Often, people who experience a psychological pregnancy actually believe they are pregnant and behave as if they are, which can lead them to seek medical attention and prenatal care.
Factors that contribute to psychological pregnancy
Although the exact cause of psychological pregnancy is not known with certainty, it is believed that psychological and emotional factors play an important role. Some hypotheses suggest that intense desire to become pregnant, fear of an unwanted pregnancy, social pressure to become a mother, previous traumatic experiences related to motherhood or infertility, and eating or mood disorders may contribute to development of this disorder.
In addition, some studies have suggested that in extreme cases, psychological pregnancy may be associated with the production of hormones such as prolactin, which can trigger physical symptoms similar to those of a real pregnancy. . These findings highlight the complexity of this phenomenon and the need to address it from a comprehensive perspective that considers both psychological and physiological aspects.
Psychological and emotional impact
Psychological pregnancy can have a significant impact on the mental and emotional health of those who experience it. Confusion, anxiety, disappointment, and embarrassment can be common among people who discover that they are not actually pregnant after having fervently believed that they were. This disappointment can affect self-esteem, the perception of reality and interpersonal relationships, especially if the person has shared the news of the pregnancy with family and friends.
In addition, psychological pregnancy can generate feelings of guilt, failure and isolation, especially if the person has difficulty accepting that the pregnancy was just an illusion. It is essential to offer specialized psychological support to those who go through this experience to help them process their emotions, confront their erroneous beliefs and rebuild their identity and self-image in a healthy way.
Diagnosis and treatment
The Psychological pregnancy diagnosis can be complicated due to the similarity of the symptoms with a real pregnancy. Health professionals often use medical tests, such as ultrasounds and blood tests, to rule out a true pregnancy and confirm the lack of physical evidence of a developing fetus. Additionally, psychological evaluations are performed to identify possible psychological factors that may be contributing to the disorder.
Treatment of psychological pregnancy generally involves a combination of psychological therapy, emotional support, reproductive health education, and pregnancy management. anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy, and family therapy may be helpful in addressing the erroneous beliefs and dysfunctional thinking patterns that underlie the disorder. Likewise, it is important to provide accurate information about reproduction and fertility to help the person understand the situation and accept it in a healthy way.
Conclusions
In conclusion, psychological pregnancy is an intriguing and complex phenomenon that deserves to be approached with sensitivity and understanding. Although it can be disconcerting and challenging for both those who experience it and those around them, it is essential to recognize that it is a real condition that requires appropriate professional care and emotional support.
With a comprehensive approach that combines medical, psychological and emotional care, it is possible to address and overcome psychological pregnancy effectively, promoting the emotional well-being and mental health of the affected people. Education, awareness and empathy are key to banishing myths and prejudices around this disorder and fostering a space of understanding and support for those who go through it.