Blighted ovum
A blighted ovum
occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the wall of the uterus, but the embryo
does not develop. The cells grow to form the fetal sac, but not the embryo
itself. Blighted ovum occurs during the first trimester, often before a woman
knows she is pregnant. A high level of chromosomal abnormalities usually causes
a natural miscarriage in the female body.
One of the first
things you need to know if you've been diagnosed with a blighted ovum is that
it's a waste. Give yourself time and permission to grieve. This is a type of
miscarriage, and you can help yourself through the grieving process by learning
more about how to survive a miscarriage.
Symptoms of blighted ovum
A blighted ovum can
occur very early in pregnancy, even before most women know they are pregnant.
You may experience signs of pregnancy, such as a missed or late period, and
even a positive pregnancy test. Many women assume that their pregnancy is
correct because their hCG levels are rising.
The placenta may
continue to grow and support itself without a baby for a short time, and
pregnancy hormones may continue to rise, making the woman think she is still
pregnant. Diagnosis is usually not made until an ultrasound shows an empty
uterus or an empty gestational sac. You may have minor abdominal cramps and
spotting or minor vaginal bleeding.
What causes blighted ovum?
Blighted ovum is
responsible for about 50% of first trimester miscarriages and is usually the
result of chromosomal problems. The woman's body recognizes abnormal
chromosomes in the fetus and naturally does not try to maintain the pregnancy
because the fetus will not develop into a healthy baby. This can be caused by
abnormal cell division or poor sperm or egg quality.
Is curettage necessary?
This is a decision
that only you can make on your own. Most doctors do not recommend curettage for
early pregnancy loss. It is believed that the female body is able to pass
tissue on its own, and there is no need for an invasive operation with the risk
of complications.
How to prevent a blighted ovum?
Unfortunately, in most cases a blighted ovum cannot be avoided. Some couples seek genetic testing if multiple early pregnancy losses occur. Blighted ovum is often a one-time event, and a woman rarely experiences more than one event. Most doctors recommend that couples wait at least 1-3 regular menstrual cycles before trying to get pregnant again after any type of miscarriage.