Do Men Experience Pregnancy Symptoms Too? Know About The Couvade Syndrome

Have you heard about "sympathy weight"? We all know during pregnancy moms gain the extra weight, but so do dads too. This extra pounds that some dads put on during pregnancy is called "sympathy weight".

But why does it happen? Do men experience more than just weight gain? Do they actually develop symptoms similar to pregnancy? All of this may be true, and this is known as the couvade syndrome or sympathetic pregnancy. Dads too can have nausea, cravings, backaches, and even mood swings!

What does it really mean?

The term couvade comes from a Breton word meaning “to brood” or “incubate.” It describes a fascinating phenomenon where dads-to-be mimic pregnancy symptoms. While it’s not classified as a disease or psychological condition, it’s been observed across cultures and even linked to ancient rituals where men symbolically “experienced” pregnancy alongside their partners.

In today’s world, it might have more to do with the evolving role of fathers. With dads taking a hands-on approach to pregnancy and parenting—attending prenatal appointments, prepping the nursery, and bonding skin-to-skin with their newborns—it’s no wonder they’re feeling all the feels.

What causes this feeling?

While there is not much that the experts can say, however, there are some theories around this, which includes:

Empathy overload: Some dads experience compathy, which means they deeply share their partner's emotions and physical discomfort. When a couple says "we're pregnant", it actually feels like both are indeed pregnant.

Stress manifestation: First-time dads, especially, might feel anxious about impending fatherhood, and their stress manifests physically.

Hormonal shifts: Yes, men can have hormonal changes, too, during their partner’s pregnancy, though research is still inconclusive.

Are there any symptoms?

There are physical and emotional symptoms, which includes:

• Nausea, vomiting, or heartburn
• Bloating or abdominal pain
• Weight gain or weightloss
• Backaches, toothaches and cramps

Emotional symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, restlessness, trouble sleeping and low libido could also follow.

These symptoms also show up in the first trimester, and fade in second. They often peak in the third trimester, almost like mirroring their pregnant partner's experiences. However, the good news is, it disappears once the baby arrives.

How to cope with couvade syndrome?

Prepare Yourself: Attend prenatal classes, read parenting books, or check out blogs for dads.

Talk It Out: Share your feelings with your partner, friends, or family. A therapist can also help if anxiety is overwhelming.

Plan Ahead: Babyproof the house, stock up on supplies, and mentally prepare for the big changes ahead.

Practice Self-Care: Stay active, eat well, and rest when you need to.

While it is true that pregnancy can be overwhelming for both the partners, it is more difficult for the mother, as her body changes. Thus it is important for the dads to communicate and be patient with each other. Being involved and participating in prenatal classes could also show the mother that the dad is involved and is there to take care in this new journey of life.