Delusion of Pregnancy – Case Series of Seven Patients

Abstract

Aim: The delusion of pregnancy involves neurophysiologic, endocrine, and traditional psychodynamic factors. This study investigated these factors in seven female patients with pregnancy delusions who were treated at the psychiatric ward within a period of 4 months. Methods: Six patients were treated for schizophrenia (and two also for epilepsy) and one for organic psychosis. Medical history and clinical data were noted. Actual pregnancy was excluded. Prolactin levels in the blood were measured and records were maintained of patient therapy sessions. Results: The delusion of pregnancy was more prevalent in psychiatric practice than previously thought. Hyperprolactinemia was identified as a possible biological cause of this condition in five of the patients. Conclusion: An integrative approach that considers psychodynamic and sociocultural factors must be adopted for etiological studies on the delusion of pregnancy, while individual differences must also be examined.