Can you imagine finding out that you are pregnant a few hours before your delivery? We neither. However, this reality is that of thousands of women in France every year. This is called denial of pregnancy. This psychological disorder, which can mask a gestation until its term, causes those who experience it an emotional shock, sometimes profound. However, don't panic: it remains very rare! So, how do you know if you are in denial of pregnancy? Focus on the different types, their causes and the resources available to affected pregnant women.
Types of denial of pregnancy
According to Qare , during an invisible pregnancy, the fetus nestles at the spine or behind the ribs. Which gives rise to two different types of denial.
Complete denial of pregnancy: Characteristics and manifestations
The most extreme form is complete denial of pregnancy. The woman is not aware of being pregnant... Until she gives birth. This phenomenon implies a total absence of the usual symptoms of pregnancy (swollen stomach, morning sickness, absence of periods). The expectant mother maintains a normal lifestyle because her body has not changed. And so, therefore... neither does his behavior!
Partial denial of pregnancy: Signs and implications
Partial denial is characterized by late awareness of the pregnancy, often after the fourth month of pregnancy. When this is the case, the woman may experience some mild symptoms, but would tend to attribute them to other causes. It is generally the fetal movements that trigger awareness: they become more and more perceptible. And therefore, can lead to abdominal pain or other more obvious signs of pregnancy.
Causes and risk factors for denial of pregnancy
Denial of pregnancy remains a complex phenomenon, influenced by a multitude of psychological, emotional, contextual, and sometimes hormonal factors.
Psychological and emotional factors
Psychological factors play a central role in pregnancy denial. We frequently perceive this phenomenon as a defense mechanism: the woman's unconscious seeks to protect her from a reality that is too violent for her, sometimes downright insurmountable. Denial then finds its source in deep fears linked to:
- maternity ;
- the ability to become a mother;
- more specific anxieties.
Let us also add that a history of trauma (sexual abuse, violent upbringing) can promote the emergence of denial of pregnancy. The psyche then seeks to avoid reliving certain painful memories or experiencing situations perceived as threatening.
This article may also interest you: How to know if you have had a miscarriage?
Sociocultural and contextual factors
The sociocultural and family context of the mother-to-be can also have a strong influence on pregnancy denials. We then think of:
- gestations outside of marriage;
- family conflicts;
- a precarious situation;
- the stigmatization of single mothers;
- certain social pressures.
These factors are, most often, linked to the lack of support from those around them. The woman then feels isolated and unable to cope with the situation.
Influence of hormonal factors
Hormones can also enhance certain denials of pregnancy. Although the hypothesis is less documented, it is possible that atypical hormonal variations could mask pregnancy symptoms or influence the psychological state of the woman. This idea would therefore explain why some people do not perceive the bodily changes linked to pregnancy. And therefore, do not know that they are pregnant.
As you will have understood, pregnancy denials can be multifactorial, on a physical, psychological, contextual and hormonal level. But once diagnosed, the most important thing is to receive gentle support from the medical profession... But not only that.
Care and support
Due to its absence of signs, denial of pregnancy can cause very intense psychological shock in the pregnant woman. It is therefore necessary to put in place multidisciplinary care to guarantee the health of the mother and fetus.
Diagnosis and medical support
The problem with denial of pregnancy is that it is evaluated late. So if a woman presents signs that may be related to this psychological disorder, this requires greater vigilance. Once the diagnosis has been established, it is the medical profession who takes over to monitor the development of the future baby and the health of his mother. This can go through:
- additional ultrasounds;
- adapted prenatal consultations;
- any examination necessary to ensure their well-being.
Psychological and emotional support
Future mothers can develop a strong feeling of guilt following a denial of pregnancy. To appease them, psychological support remains fundamental. We may suggest sessions with a psychologist or psychiatrist. The goal: to work on the underlying causes of denial, accept the pregnancy, and prepare for the baby's arrival. At the same time, these women need the emotional support of their family, their friends, and anyone who could provide them with a safe environment for the future.
Are you on your childbearing journey and looking for a little help? Discover our pregnancy vitamins !
Resources and services available
Good news, there are plenty of resources available to future mothers in denial of pregnancy! As :
- Maternal and Child Protection (PMI) services;
- the French Association for the Recognition of Denial of Pregnancy;
- online or local support groups.
All of these services offer valuable support to those who need it. To the woman concerned, of course. But to those around him, too!
Denial of pregnancy remains a complex condition, which can cause real shock in pregnant women. He therefore requires gentle, but multiple, care for his well-being and that of his child. Understanding, medical monitoring, psychologist, support from those around you... All these factors will help the future mother accept her motherhood and prepare for the arrival of her baby.
