What causes phantom pregnancies?

The exact causes of phantom pregnancies, also known as pseudocyesis, are not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:

Neuroendocrine factors: Dysregulation of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, the main hormonal control centres of the body, can lead to hormonal changes similar to those occurring during pregnancy. In such cases, the body goes through normal gestational changes despite the absence of a fetus.

Maternal desires: A desire for pregnancy, or emotional factors can affect the perception of pregnancy, leading to psychological experiences that mimic pregnancy symptoms.

Neurological or psychiatric disorders: Underlying mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia may also contribute to experiences of phantom pregnancies.

Hormonal imbalances: Some medical conditions that involve hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid problems, can cause physical symptoms that resemble pregnancy.

Tumours: Rarely, certain benign tumours, such as hydatidiform moles, can cause abnormal hormone production, leading to phantom pregnancies.