Spurious pregnancy is a term used to describe a false or pseudo-pregnancy in which the woman presents all the symptoms of pregnancy but does not actually conceive. The spelling of the word is [ˈspjʊəriəs pɹɛɡnənsi], with "spurious" pronounced as "SPYUH-ree-uhs" and "pregnancy" pronounced as "PRĕG-nən-sē". This condition is sometimes called a phantom pregnancy and can occur for a variety of reasons, including psychological factors or hormonal imbalances. It is important for women who experience such symptoms to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Spurious pregnancy, also known as pseudocyesis or false pregnancy, is a condition in which a person experiences many physical and psychological symptoms associated with pregnancy despite not being pregnant. This phenomenon is more commonly observed in women, though it can also occur in men.
The misconception of being pregnant in spurious pregnancy is often fueled by the presence of various symptoms, including missed periods, weight gain, swollen abdomen, breast changes, and even experiencing fetal movements. Additionally, individuals with this condition may exhibit classic signs of pregnancy such as morning sickness, food cravings, and mood swings. They may also develop a strong belief that they are carrying a baby, further reinforcing their conviction.
The causes of spurious pregnancy are multifactorial and can arise from both physiological and psychological factors. Hormonal imbalances, particularly alterations in the levels of progesterone and prolactin, can contribute to the development of spurious pregnancy. Psychological factors such as intense desire for a child or fear of pregnancy may also play a role.
The diagnosis of spurious pregnancy often involves a comprehensive medical evaluation to rule out true pregnancy or any underlying medical conditions. Health professionals may conduct physical examinations, laboratory tests, and, in some cases, imaging studies to determine the absence of a fetus.
Treatment for spurious pregnancy focuses on addressing the underlying psychological factors contributing to the condition. Counseling and therapy may be beneficial to help individuals cope with their emotions and manage any associated anxiety or depression.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "spurious" traces its roots back to Latin. It comes from the Latin word "spurius", meaning illegitimate or false. "Pregnancy" is derived from the Latin word "praegnantia", which means being with child or carrying offspring. Combining these two roots, "spurious pregnancy" refers to a condition where there are false symptoms of being pregnant, despite the absence of an actual pregnancy.