Pseudocyesisaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Mental Health Disorders
What is Pseudocyesis?
Pseudocyesis, commonly known as false or phantom pregnancy, is a complex condition where a woman experiences many signs and symptoms of pregnancy while not actually being pregnant. This phenomenon includes physical changes such as abdominal enlargement, nausea, and even sensation of fetal movements, along with hormonal shifts like those seen in pregnancy.
Pseudocyesis is not merely a physical condition; it also encompasses psychological and emotional dimensions, reflecting the intricate interplay between mind and body in human health.
How does TCM view Pseudocyesis?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a unique perspective on pseudocyesis, differing substantially from Western medical views. TCM understands pseudocyesis as a manifestation of internal imbalances within the body’s energy system, or Qi.
This approach considers the role of various patterns of disharmony in causing symptoms, highlighting the importance of identifying these patterns for effective treatment. TCM sees pseudocyesis not just as a physical or psychological issue, but as a holistic disturbance requiring a balanced approach to both mind and body.
Root Causes of Pseudocyesis in TCM
In TCM, pseudocyesis is often associated with specific patterns of imbalance, particularly involving Phlegm. One such pattern is Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, which can manifest symptoms resembling pregnancy, like late or absent menstruation, lower abdominal pain, and a feeling of heaviness. This pattern suggests an accumulation of Dampness and Phlegm in the body, disrupting the normal functioning of the uterus and Qi.
The TCM patterns underscore the intricate connections between emotional well-being, energy flow, and physical symptoms.
Explore below more details about what might cause Pseudocyesis according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Phlegm
- Dampness
- Uterus
Phlegm
In TCM "Phlegm" as a pattern of disharmony is a complex concept that extends beyond the physical manifestation of mucus. It represents a pathological factor that can disrupt the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, leading to various health issues. Phlegm in TCM is seen as a sticky, turbid substance arising from the body's inability to metabolize fluids properly, often due to a dysfunction of the spleen. It's not only associated with respiratory problems like cough and congestion but also with systemic issues. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness, mental cloudiness, dizziness, and in some cases, the formation of lumps or masses. Phlegm can even be "invisible," contributing to emotional disturbances like depression or stress. ... see more
Phlegm Patterns That Can Lead to Pseudocyesis
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Phantom pregnancy, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
Dampness
"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more
Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Pseudocyesis
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Phantom pregnancy, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
Uterus
In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more
Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Pseudocyesis
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus | Phantom pregnancy, Late menstruation, Amenorrhea, Scanty menstruation, Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal heaviness, Feeling of oppression of the chest, Generalized fatigue, Diarrhea, Dull pale complexion, Obesity, Infertility, Ovarian cysts, Ovarian fibroids, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pseudocyesis, Sputum, Feeling of heaviness... see more | Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Wei Ling Tang | Wan Dai Tang | Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Pseudocyesis
To address pseudocyesis, TCM relies on specific formulas and herbs aimed at correcting the underlying imbalances. For the pattern of Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus, formulas like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan and Wei Ling Tang are often used.
These contain key herbs like Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu), which regulate Qi, and Water plantain (Ze Xie), which drains Dampness. The choice of these formulas is based on a comprehensive diagnosis of the individual's pattern of disharmony, reflecting TCM's personalized approach to treatment. By targeting these specific patterns, TCM seeks to restore balance and alleviate the symptoms of pseudocyesis.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address pseudocyesis, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Phlegm
- Dampness
- Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
- Formulas that expel dampness
- Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
Top Formula for Phlegm:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Phlegm patterns that may cause pseudocyesis, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Pseudocyesis Caused by Phlegm
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wei Ling Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wan Dai Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Top Formula for Dampness:
Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan
Suitable for Dampness patterns that may cause pseudocyesis, such as Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Pseudocyesis Caused by Dampness
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wei Ling Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Wan Dai Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that dry Dampness and transform Phlegm
These formulas are suitable for some pseudocyesis-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan, with coco-grass rhizome as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm" recommended for pseudocyesis
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
| Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang | Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus |
Formulas that expel Dampness
These formulas are suitable for some pseudocyesis-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wei Ling Tang, with water plantain as a key herb.
Formulas that secure irregular uterine bleeding and stop vaginal discharge
These formulas are suitable for some pseudocyesis-causing patterns like Damp-Phlegm in the Uterus.
One such formula is Wan Dai Tang, with atractylodes rhizome as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Pseudocyesis
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address pseudocyesis, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that regulate qi
- Aromatic herbs that transform dampness
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Pseudocyesis can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for pseudocyesis, like Wan Dai Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for pseudocyesis
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Wan Dai Tang |
| Yam (Shan Yao) | Wan Dai Tang |
Herbs that regulate Qi
Pseudocyesis can be treated by these herbs when resulting from Qi stagnation or imbalance, helping to promote the smooth flow of Qi in the body.
One such herb is Coco-Grass Rhizomes (Xiang Fu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for pseudocyesis, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness
Pseudocyesis can be treated by these herbs if it stems from damp accumulation, especially in the digestive system, using aromatic properties to transform and dispel dampness.
One such herb is Black Atractylodes Rhizomes (Cang Zhu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for pseudocyesis, like Cang Fu Dao Tan Wan.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Pseudocyesis can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Water Plantain (Ze Xie), a key herb in some formulas recommended for pseudocyesis, like Wei Ling Tang.
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Pseudocyesis can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Dong Quai (Dang Gui), a key herb in some formulas recommended for pseudocyesis, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Pseudocyesis can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Szechuan Lovage Roots (Chuan Xiong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for pseudocyesis, like Xiong Gui Er Chen Tang.