Pseudocyesis developing after multiple traumatic experiences: a case report2

Abstract

Pseudocyesis is a rare condition defined as a false belief of pregnancy in a non-pregnant indi-vidual, typically accompanied by pregnancy-related symptoms. It is often comorbid with other mental disorders. We present the case of a 30-year-old single woman admitted to a psychiatric ward with psychotic symptoms. Her history included traumatic life events: the loss of her twin sister at the age of 17, two years of social isolation at home due to Guillain-Barré syndrome at 24, and a leg fracture from a house fire at 27. Following these events, she exhibited psychotic and depressive symptoms but showed poor treatment adherence. During her hospitalization, she presented with abdominal distension and expressed a firm belief in her pregnancy despite evidence to the contrary. Her symptoms improved after a four-week inpatient stay. Factors contributing to the development of pseudocyesis in this case were an introverted personality, mild intellectual disability, prolonged social isolation, traumatic experiences, and elevated prolactin levels due to stress and antipsychotic use. The patient’s belief in her pregnancy, combined with objective pregnancy-like symptoms such as amenorrhea and abdominal distension, led to a diagnosis of pseudocyesis over delusional pregnancy. However, due to significant clinical hetero-geneity, distinguishing between these two conditions is not always possible. Successful treatment en-compasses addressing comorbid mental health disorders, establishing a strong therapeutic relationship, providing social support, and managing underlying organic conditions that may contribute to the development of pseudocyesis.