Pseudocyesis in adolescent females

Abstract

Three adolescent patients were diagnosed as having pseudocyesis based on an assessment including pelvic examination, pregnancy tests, and pelvic ultrasound scanning. Their psychosocial evaluation demonstrate a conversion reaction in already deprived and depressed adolescents. They responded to psychotherapeutic counseling. Pseudocyesis merits consideration in the differential diagnosis of secondary amenorrhea. It occurs psychologically in vulnerable adolescents who exhibit rather primitive defense mechanisms. Once a patient acknowledges that she is not pregnant, severe depression is a possible complication. A review is presented of the current medical literature on this subject.