Pseudocyesis in an adolescent incest survivor.

Abstract

This case is an example of pseudocyesis in an incest survivor. Symptoms of pregnancy were unconsciously created by the patient to shield her from the memory of her incest and at the same time confront the reality of her abuse. Her symptoms allowed her entrance into the medical system. Once in the system, it was just a matter of time before she was referred for psychological evaluation. The authors recommend that family physicians consider incest when evaluating patients who present with pseudocyesis.