Why does pseudopregnancy show two lines?
Dec 27, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, pregnancy refers to gestation. Pseudopregnancy, or false pregnancy, refers to a condition in which a woman experiences symptoms similar to those of pregnancy, such as amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), nausea, and vomiting, but is not actually pregnant. The appearance of two lines (positive result) in cases of pseudopregnancy may be caused by factors such as excessive psychological stress, menstrual irregularities, luteal phase defect, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or hypothyroidism.
Generally speaking, pseudopregnancy refers to a false pregnancy. The possible reasons for a false pregnancy showing two lines (positive result) may include excessive psychological stress, menstrual disorders, luteal insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and hypothyroidism. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Excessive Psychological Stress
Women who have been unable to conceive successfully over a prolonged period may experience certain symptoms similar to those of pregnancy due to excessive psychological stress. These stress factors can interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system, particularly affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which may lead to abnormal hormone secretion. Maintaining a positive mindset in daily life and avoiding excessive pressure is recommended.
2. Menstrual Disorders
In women with irregular menstrual cycles, factors such as psychological stress may lead to amenorrhea and other symptoms. These symptoms resemble those of early pregnancy but are not caused by elevated hCG levels. Maintaining a regular sleep-wake schedule, eating a balanced diet, engaging in moderate exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep can help maintain a normal menstrual cycle.
3. Luteal Insufficiency
Luteal insufficiency may be caused by failure of follicles to develop into the corpus luteum or insufficient luteal function. This condition leads to a rapid decline in progesterone levels, causing premature shedding of the endometrium. This kind of non-menstrual bleeding may mislead women into believing they are pregnant. It may also be accompanied by a shortened menstrual cycle and infertility. Treatment may include medications such as dydrogesterone tablets, medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets, or progesterone capsules, as prescribed by a physician, to supplement the body's lack of progesterone.
4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex reproductive endocrine and metabolic disorder that may be caused by environmental and genetic factors. It is characterized by elevated androgen levels and persistent anovulation. These factors may lead to irregular menstrual cycles, making women mistakenly believe they are experiencing signs of pregnancy, and may also be accompanied by symptoms such as hirsutism, acne, and obesity. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as ethinylestradiol cyproterone tablets, levonorgestrel tablets, or spironolactone tablets can be used to reduce androgen levels and regulate the menstrual cycle.
5. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism may be caused by factors such as autoimmune disease, surgery, or radiotherapy, leading to low levels of thyroid hormones in the blood. A decrease in thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion may cause abnormal hormone levels in the body, leading to symptoms of pseudopregnancy and thus producing a two-line (positive) test result. Common symptoms include cold intolerance, fatigue, and weight gain. Treatment may involve medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets or thyroid extract tablets, following the physician's recommendations.
It is recommended that women maintain a positive mindset in daily life, avoid excessive stress, and keep a cheerful mood. A balanced diet with adequate nutrition should be maintained, avoiding extreme dieting or overeating.
