A blighted ovum is a type of early pregnancy loss. In this situation, the fertilised egg implants in the uterus and a pregnancy sac forms, but the embryo does not develop normally. Also called an empty-embryonic pregnancy.
A blighted ovum can be an emotional experience, particularly because you may experience pregnancy symptoms and have a positive pregnancy test, even if there is no embryo developing.
Causes of Blighted Ovum
The reason is not always obvious. A blighted ovum, however, is often linked to random chromosomal abnormalities during fertilisation or early cell division.
These genetic problems can stop the embryo from developing normally. Most of the time this isn’t because of something the pregnant person did.
Age is one of the factors that can affect the overall risk for chromosomal abnormalities, but a blighted ovum can occur in people of different ages and doesn’t necessarily mean there is an underlying fertility problem.
Symptoms
Pregnancy hormones are made first, so some women have normal early pregnancy symptoms. Some people may experience symptom improvement.
Symptoms can include:
- Pregnancy test positive
- Vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Cramping in the abdomen or pelvis
- A period that does not come as expected
- Slowly disappearing symptoms of pregnancy
Some may have no obvious symptoms and only find out about the problem during a routine ultrasound.
How to Check for a Blighted Ovum
Usually, an ultrasound is performed to determine if an embryo has developed in the pregnancy sac.
A single ultrasound in the very early pregnancy may not be conclusive because very early development of the pregnancy varies. Your health care provider may ask you to have another ultrasound or blood tests to check your hCG levels before confirming a loss of pregnancy.
It is important to correctly diagnose prior to initiating treatment.
Management of a Blighted Ovum
Following diagnosis of a blighted ovum, there are usually several management options.
Nonsurgical treatment
It is a process where you wait for the body to miscarry on its own. You may experience bleeding and cramping as the pregnancy tissue passes.
Drugs
A doctor may prescribe medication to help the uterus pass the pregnancy tissue. Follow medical instructions carefully and report concerning symptoms.
D&C Process
Dilation and curettage (D&C): A D&C is a procedure in which tissue from a pregnancy is removed from the uterus. Depending on the symptoms, medical situation or personal choice it may be considered.
Your healthcare professional can discuss the benefits and risks of each option for you.
Recommended Reading
Can You Get Pregnant Immediately After Miscarriage?
HOLY SPIRIT AND ANOINTING: PRESENCE AND POWER OF THE SPIRIT
Overcoming the Spirit of Fear: Walking in Power, Love, and a Sound Mind
Can You Become Pregnant After a Blighted Ovum?
Yes. A blighted ovum does not typically preclude a future pregnancy. Many go on to have healthy pregnancies afterward.
Ovulation can return fairly soon after an early pregnancy loss. If you are thinking about getting pregnant again, discuss when to start trying and preconception care with your healthcare professional.
If you’ve had recurrent pregnancy losses, further evaluation may be recommended.
When to Seek Medical Help
Get emergency medical help if you have very heavy bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal or pelvic pain, faint or become very dizzy, develop a fever, or feel very ill.
These symptoms could be a complication and need prompt medical attention.
Conclusion
Blighted ovum is an early pregnancy loss in which a pregnancy sac develops without the embryo developing normally. Chromosomal abnormalities are a common cause, and the condition is not usually something the pregnant person did.
Treatment may involve waiting for the miscarriage to happen naturally, taking prescribed medication or having a D&C. With the right medical care and emotional support, many people can go on to have a healthy pregnancy in the future.