What is a cryptic pregnancy?

In a surprising revelation, digital creator Nicole shared her experience of going through an entire pregnancy without ever developing a visible ba bump. Curious to understand this phenomenon, reached out to a health expert for insights.

Can you be pregnant without showing a bump?
“Yes, it’s possible to be pregnant without showing a noticeable bump, especially in the early stages or due to factors like height, strong abdominal muscles, or certain medical conditions such as an anterior placenta,” said Dr Kavitha Kovi, head of obstetrics and gynaecology at Aster Women and Children Hospital, Bengaluru. She also said that body type and weight of the mother and the ba’s position also influence how visible the pregnancy appears. Some women may not develop a prominent bump until the later stages, while others might not show at all, according to her.
What is a cryptic pregnancy?
“A pregnancy that remains undetected––where hormonal levels or body structure mask typical pregnancy signs––is known as a cryptic pregnancy,” said Dr Kovi. “It can occur due to factors such as strong abdominal muscles, obesity, or a retroverted uterus that hides the bump. It’s more common during a first pregnancy or when the ba lies towards the back,” she said.
In some cases, women may not realise they are pregnant until their third trimester—or even during labour—due to minimal symptoms. “A rare condition called pseudocyesis, or false pregnancy, can cause women to experience physical and emotional pregnancy-like symptoms such as missed periods, breast tenderness, nausea, weight gain, and even the sensation of foetal movement, despite not being pregnant,” she said.
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Is it risky?
Dr Kovi cautioned that undetected pregnancies can lead to risks, particularly if a woman is unaware of foetal movement and misses out on prenatal care. This can result in complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or foetal growth issues. “Without prenatal vitamins, appropriate nutrition, or medical supervision, the ba’s development may be affected. However, if diagnosed in time, medical intervention can help manage the pregnancy safely,” she said.
What should you keep in mind to avoid such circumstances?
While cryptic pregnancies are rare and cannot always be predicted, women can reduce the chances monitoring their menstrual cycle, taking pregnancy tests if their period is late, and staying informed about early pregnancy symptoms. Regular medical checkups, especially for those not using reliable birth control, can help detect unexpected pregnancies early and prevent potential risks.
“Being aware of your body and seeking medical advice at the first sign of pregnancy-related symptoms can help prevent complications,” Dr Kovi said.