Differential Diagnosis for Delusion of Being Pregnant

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Schizophrenia: This is the most likely diagnosis because delusions of pregnancy can be a type of bizarre delusion, which is a hallmark symptom of schizophrenia.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Delusional disorder: A person with delusional disorder may have a delusion of being pregnant without the full symptom complex of schizophrenia.
  • Bipolar disorder with psychotic features: In some cases, individuals with bipolar disorder can experience delusions, including those related to pregnancy, during a manic or mixed episode.
  • Major depressive disorder with psychotic features: Although less common, some people with severe depression can have delusions, including delusions of pregnancy.
• Do Not Miss diagnoses
  • Pseudocyesis (false pregnancy): This condition, also known as phantom pregnancy, is a rare condition where a person believes they are pregnant when they are not. It's crucial to rule out an actual pregnancy and to consider pseudocyesis, as it can have significant psychological and physical implications.
  • Organic causes (e.g., brain tumor, neurosyphilis): Certain medical conditions can cause delusions, including those related to pregnancy. It's essential to investigate potential organic causes to provide appropriate treatment.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Couvade syndrome: This is a rare condition where a person, often a man, experiences symptoms of pregnancy, including the delusion of being pregnant, in sympathy with their partner's pregnancy.
  • Factitious disorder: In this condition, a person intentionally fabricates or fakes symptoms, including delusions of pregnancy, to gain attention and sympathy.