Which term describes a condition where a woman believes she is pregnant without being so?

Study for the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The term that accurately describes a condition where a woman believes she is pregnant despite not actually being so is pseudocyesis. This psychological condition involves a strong belief in being pregnant along with various physical signs and symptoms that mimic those of actual pregnancy, such as abdominal enlargement, breast tenderness, and even perceived fetal movements.

Pseudocyesis is distinct from other conditions related to health concerns or psychological issues because it specifically pertains to a false belief about pregnancy, often stemming from a deep desire to conceive or from psychological factors. It highlights the intersection of psychological and physiological symptoms, demonstrating how powerful the mind can be in influencing bodily experiences.

In contrast, hypochondriasis refers to excessive worry about having a serious medical condition, psychogenic infertility relates to psychological factors that affect a woman's ability to conceive, and false pregnancy syndrome is not a medically recognized term but may be used informally to describe similar cases of pseudocyesis. Thus, pseudocyesis most accurately captures the essence of the described condition.

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