Couvade syndrome, also known as psychological pregnancy, is not a disease, but a set of symptoms that may appear in men during the pregnancy of the partner, who psychologically express pregnancy with similar sensations. Prospective parents can gain weight, suffer from nausea, cravings, crying or even depression.
The symptoms also show the need for many men to become fathers, or the strong emotional and affective connection with the woman, which ends up transferring to the husband a series of sensations that usually manifest only in the woman.
Syndrome does not usually cause psychic disturbances, however, it is advisable to seek a specialist only when the situation is out of control and starts to bother the couple and the people close to you.
What are the symptoms
The most common physical symptoms characteristic of this syndrome may include nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain, bloating, increased or decreased appetite, respiratory problems, tooth and back pain, leg cramps, and genital or urinary irritation.
Psychological symptoms may include changes in sleep, anxiety, depression, decreased sexual appetite, and restlessness.
Possible causes
It is not yet known what causes this syndrome, but it is thought to be related to the anxiety of man in relation to pregnancy and parenthood, or that it is an unconscious adaptation of the brain so that the future father can relate and hold on to the baby.
This syndrome is more common in men who have a strong desire to be parents, who are emotionally attached to the pregnant partner, and if pregnancy is at risk, there is a greater likelihood of developing these symptoms.
How is the treatment done?
Because Couvade syndrome is not considered a disease, it does not have a specific treatment, and the symptoms may persist in the man until the baby is born. In these cases the man is advised to try to relax, which may help to mitigate the symptoms.
If the symptoms are very intense and frequent, or if you get out of control and start bothering the couple and those close to you, it is advisable to consult a therapist.
