Couvade Syndrome

Couvade syndrome, also called sympathetic pregnancy, is a proposed condition in which a partner experiences some of the same symptoms and behavior of an expectant mother. These most often include minor weight gain, altered hormone levels, morning nausea, and disturbed sleep patterns. In more extreme cases, symptoms can include labor pains, postpartum depression, and nosebleeds. The labor pain symptom is commonly known as sympathy pain.

Couvade syndrome is not a recognized medical condition. Its source is a matter of debate. Some believe it to be a psychosomatic condition, while others believe it may have biological causes relating to hormone changes. Couvade rituals are thought to have a number of possible purposes, depending on the specific culture. To draw the attention of evil spirits away from the mother to the father instead. To strengthen the emotional bond between father and child. To show that the man is the child's biological father. To relieve the father's anxiety while the mother is in labor. To strengthen the father's relationship with supernatural beings so that he can guide the child into the world.