Conversion disorder following termination of pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychosomatic Medicine
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Psychological disorders can present with physical symptoms lacking an organic basis, a phenomenon observed for centuries.
• Conversion disorder involves involuntary somatic dysfunction linked to environmental stressors.

Observation:

• This case illustrates the development of conversion disorder (urinary retention) following a patient's decision to terminate a pregnancy.
• The patient experienced an involuntary loss of somatic function (urinary retention) directly related to the stressor of the pregnancy decision.

Findings:

• Conversion disorder serves as a defense mechanism, offering primary psychic gain by concealing internal conflict.
• Secondary gains include increased environmental support and avoidance of undesirable activities.

Implications:

• Recognizing and managing functional physical complaints requires understanding the patient's life events, stress responses, and support systems.
• This case highlights the intricate connection between psychological stress, decision-making, and somatic symptom presentation.