You might have heard the claims that expectant fathers sometimes put on weight while their parters are pregnant, but turns out there's actually a syndrome that can make partners feel like they're also expecting a baby.
Couvade syndrome, or sympathetic pregnancy, describes a condition in which partners feel as though they're having pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, sickness and body changes.
“We think couvade syndrome is a psychological response that produces real physical symptoms,” obstetrician gynaecologist Catherine Caponero explained, as per Cleveland Clinic.
“Interestingly, it’s not the only example of how having a baby affects nonpregnant partners. Postpartum depression in nonbirthing partners is also common."
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In a study of over 260 couples in New York, 20 percent of non-pregnant partners sought out treatment and care for the syndrome.
Meanwhile, a 2007 study found that the condition could impact 97 percent of partners across the globe.
Causes of couvade syndrome
According to Cleveland Clinic, scientists think that couvade syndrome could be linked to the emotions surrounding pregnancy and the impending changes.
Caponero also explained that fertility treatment can boost the occurrence of the condition.
“Couples who went through infertility treatment seem to have an increased risk of couvade syndrome,” Dr. Caponero explained.
“In this case, it makes sense to consider that a nonpregnant partner can feel increased levels of both stress and empathy, which can cause physical symptoms.”
For example, higher stress levels can release cortisol which can in turn lead to nausea and sickness.
Symptoms of couvade syndrome
People with couvade syndrome often report symptoms similar to those experienced during pregnancy.
These can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Anxiety and mood changes
- Appetite fluctuations
- Bloating
- Brain fog
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
One man, Alex Jones, began feeling sick every night when his partner was pregnant with their first child.
"I first noticed a nausea," Alex told BBC.
"I have a very high threshold for vomiting and sickness. It takes a lot for me to experience nausea. So when it started… I immediately noticed it.
"The weirdest thing was that I woke up frequently with numb arms.
"When I told my wife, she said that it had been happening to her too."
Treatments to help with couvade syndrome include exercise, meditation and therapy in order to reduce stress levels; over the counter prescription medicines and prenatal classes to help prepare for a new arrival.
Lucy Devine