Pregnancy

Symptoms of pregnancy in dads (Couvade syndrome)

We are often led to underestimate the feelings of future dads during pregnancy . Very wrong. Both because we run the risk of putting them “in the background” in this wonderful journey that is pregnancy, and because they too undergo particular changes not only psychological but also physical during the nine months, recently ascertained by scientific studies.

When a man experiences all the symptoms and behaviors of a pregnant woman, it is called Couvade Syndrome. The name has a French origin, it derives from “couver” which means ” to brood, to give birth “, therefore a sense of protection towards the unborn child.

The symptoms that characterize it are

  • slight weight gain, 
  • alteration in hormone levels,  
  • morning sickness,
  • sleep disorders
  •  cravings.

In some extreme manifestations, birth pains and postpartum depression even occur.

Symptoms can appear as early as the first trimester of the partner’s pregnancy.

The origin of the syndrome

Researchers are somewhat dubious about the origin of the syndrome. Some believe it is a psychosomatic condition. In other words, males would somatize the pregnancy of their partner. Other scientists instead indicate as responsible for the syndrome, some biological causes.

However, recent studies have confirmed that a pregnant woman’s partner can undergo hormonal changes.

A study conducted by the Memorial University of Newfoundland, in Canada, has shown that in the blood of men who are expecting a child there is a higher concentration of prolactin and cortisol  (both hormones are responsible for the state of stress of the future father).

Many studies also confirm that at the birth of the baby, new dads are subject to a release of oxytocin into the blood which keeps the testosterone level low and favors the bond with the newborn baby .

Dr Kathryn Barlow

Kathryn Barlow is an OB/GYN doctor, which is the medical specialty that deals with the care of women's reproductive health, including pregnancy and childbirth.

Obstetricians provide care to women during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, while gynecologists focus on the health of the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, vagina, and breasts. OB/GYN doctors are trained to provide medical and surgical care for a wide range of conditions related to women's reproductive health.

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