Wat is Schijnzwanger? - Verloskundigen PuurBegin in Kampen

You feel different, your period is late and you are even starting to see a little belly. Could it be? But the pregnancy test is negative. You are having a false pregnancy. But what exactly does this mean? Midwives PuurBegin in Kampen we understand that this can be confusing. That is why we would like to explain to you what a false pregnancy is.

The Definition of False Pregnancy

A false pregnancy, also called pseudocyesis, is a condition in which you experience all the symptoms of pregnancy without actually having a baby growing inside you. Your body and mind play a convincing game, making you feel like you are pregnant.

Symptoms of a False Pregnancy

The symptoms of a false pregnancy can be very diverse and are very similar to those of a real pregnancy:

Morning sickness
Sensitive and larger breasts
Fatigue
Absence of menstruation
Binge eating
Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
Bloated feeling
Sore breasts
Increased temperature
Increased heart rate
Smell stronger

You may even think you feel the baby move.

Causes of a False Pregnancy

The cause of a false pregnancy is complex and often a combination of factors:

Strong desire to have children: An intense desire for a baby can be so strong that your body reacts as if there is actually a pregnancy.
Fear of getting pregnant: Paradoxically, a great fear of becoming pregnant can also cause a false pregnancy.
Previous traumatic experiences: Miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies or the loss of a loved one can be a trigger.
Psychological factors: In some cases, mental disorders or depression may play a role.

How do you deal with a false pregnancy?

It is important to remember that a false pregnancy is a serious condition, both physically and mentally. Here are some tips for dealing with it:

Search confirmation: Take a pregnancy test or make an appointment for a echo to gain certainty.
Talk about it: Share your feelings with your partner, family or friends.
Seek professional help: If you have difficulty accepting the situation, talking to a psychologist or therapist may help.
Be kind to yourself: Give yourself time to process what is happening and allow yourself to grieve the loss of the 'pregnancy'

False Pregnancy in Men: The Couvade Syndrome

Not only women can have a 'false pregnancy'. Men can also experience symptoms that are similar to those of a pregnant woman, this is called Couvade syndrome or male puerperium. Symptoms of this are:

Nausea
Weight gain
Stomach ache
Fatigue
Mood swings

These symptoms usually arise because men feel strongly involved in their partner's pregnancy.

False Pregnancy in Animals

Animals, such as dogs, cats and rabbits, can also have false pregnancies. This is also called false pregnancy. They then show typical pregnancy behaviour, such as building a nest.

Midwives PuurBegin are ready for you

A false pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster. It is important to know that you are not alone. At Verloskundigen PuurBegin in Kampen we are ready to support and guide you. Feel free to contact us for a conversation.

Know that you are not alone. Together we can look at what you need to get through this period as well as possible.

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