Blighted Ovum or Anembryonic Pregnancy
September 23, 2011
What is Blighted Ovum or Anembryonic Pregnancy?
Blighted ovum is a fairly common complication of pregnancy and cause of early pregnancy loss. A blighted ovum is a fertilized egg that did not develop or that stops developing. It is caused by abnormal chromosomes in the fertilized egg.
Blighted ovum can cause a missed period and positive pregnancy test and even pregnancy symptoms, but results in a spontaneous abortion within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Blighted ovum may be responsible for as many as 50-60 percent of all first trimester miscarriages.
What Causes Blighted Ovum?
It is thought that abnormal chromosomes cause blighted ovum to develop. This condition does not generally affect your fertility or chances of having a healthy pregnancy in the future.
Signs and Symptoms of Blighted Ovum
Symptoms of blighted ovum include spotting, cramping, bleeding, and falling levels of hCG.
Treatment for Blighted Ovum
Generally there is no treatment for blighted ovum, your body will deal with it naturally.
Some women prefer to have a D and C rather than wait for the miscarriage to occur. This can be discussed with your health care provider.
