Delusions of Pregnancy with Post-Partum Onset: An Integrated, Individualized View

Abstract

-Background and Objectives: Bizarre hypochondriacal delusion is an important content of delusion of pregnancy during post-partum period.Methods: Here we report two cases with postpartum delusion of pregnancy; one with pre-existing schizophrenia and another one with family history of pseudocyesis and schizoaffective disorder but with no pre-existing psychiatric illness.Results: Nosological, phenomenological and aetiological issues are discussed. In the context of novel deficit-and motivational theories of delusion formation we provide an integrated view of the reported cases.Conclusions: The complexity of the delusion of pregnancy should be considered in the treatment planning-particularly in the post-partum period.

Pseudocyesis: A complication of antipsychotic-induced increased prolactin levels and weight gain

“…It is seen in subjects of either gender. [6] It is suggested that delusional belief of being pregnant in females is usually labeled as “pseudocyesis” because of presence of physical signs and symptoms related to pregnancy accompanying the belief. In a review of literature, some authors have suggested that there are certain similarities and differences between delusions of pregnancy and pseudocyesis.…”

“…In this state, the behavior of the male resembles a pregnant woman, although he knows that he is not pregnant. [6]…”

Delusion of Triplet Pregnancy in Abdominal Cavity: A Case Report with a Review of Literature

“…This Psychopathology is uncommon, though reported in various psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorders,[ 1 2 3 4 ] delusion disorders and[ 5 6 ] affective disorders. [ 7 ] However, these symptoms are also reported in organic disorders such as epilepsy,[ 8 9 ] in dementia, and other organic brain syndromes[ 10 11 ] as well as in medical conditions such as drug-induced lactation,[ 12 ] polydipsia and hyponatremia syndrome,[ 13 ] and antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia. [ 14 ] Delusion of pregnancy has not only limited to female but also reported in males.…”

“…The mother establishes an undisturbed union with her fetus during pregnancy, which eliminate loneliness and helplessness in a magical way that can serve as a basis for delusion formation. [ 10 ] Similarly, loss of love and loss of a loved object (or of fertility), acute loneliness, and real/imagined loss of relationship were hypothesized to activate a delusion of pregnancy on a wish-fulfilling manner. [ 15 16 ] Some unusual cases have also been published, for example, recurrent delusion of pregnancy,[ 17 ] experience of labor and parturition,[ 18 ] puppy pregnancy in humans,[ 19 ] delusion of test-tube pregnancies,[ 20 ] and delusional pregnancy persisting over decades.…”

“…[ 4 5 ] However, very few cases of delusions of multiple pregnancies are reported in literature. [ 10 ] We are presenting a patient having delusion of triplet pregnancy in abdominal cavity (extrauterine) associated with hyperprolactinemia.…”