Psychosomatic and physical symptoms of the couvade syndrome

Saideh Mehrabadi,1 Mina ghalenovi,2,* Farzane ghavami shirazi,3

1. Master of midwifery, faculty member of sabzevar university of medical sciences, Sabzevar, Iran.
2. Master of midwifery, faculty member of sabzevar university of medical sciences, Sabzevar, Iran.
3. Msc, faculty of nursing and midwifery, Shahid Beheshti university of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction

Couvade syndrome or expectant father is an involuntary disorder that includes psychological and physical symptoms associated with his wife pregnancy. this disorder usually occurs in developed and industrialized countries and its prevalence has a wide range in different countries. usually, the symptoms of this syndrome are more intense in the first and third trimesters compared to the second trimester. while, none of the symptoms has been caused by tissue damage. the aim of the study is to provide an overview of the research that has explored physical and psychological changes of fathers in couvade syndrome.

Methods

A literature review search was conducted through pubmed and google scholar, medline, scopus, science direct to identify signs and symptoms of couvade syndrome and related studies.

Results

Different studies have reported symptoms of the couvade syndrome, including: abdominal pain, weight gain, change in appetite, flatulence, toothache, nausea, anxiety, insomnia, bad mood and nervousness. it is contradictory to relationship the couvade syndrome with socio-demographic factors. studies showed fathers were more involved with the process of pregnancy and childbirth due to their participation in classes and congregations related to pregnancy and childbirth in recent years. they have created deep emotional engagement with the spouse and pregnancy but some fathers reach the negative aspects of couvade syndrome.

Conclusion

Because father has more interaction in pregnancy your wife and these variation are considered a significant part of pregnancy, it is advisable to pay more attention to family health by focusing on individual members during pregnancy and postpartum period.

Keywords

Couvade syndrome, expectant father, sympathic pregnancy