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What is a blighted ovum?
A blighted ovum occurs when a fertilised egg implants in your uterus but doesn’t form into an embryo. Although the egg stops growing, the gestational sac (where the embryo will develop) continues to grow. This causes the body to release pregnancy hormones, even though the sac is empty. You may also experience early pregnancy symptoms and still see a positive test result. A blighted ovum is also called an anembryonic pregnancy or an anembryonic gestation. Eventually, a blighted ovum leads to miscarriage in early pregnancy.What Causes a Blighted Ovum?
A blighted ovum usually occurs because of chromosome abnormalities during cell division. This can happen due to poor-quality eggs or sperm, or due to a random error.During conception, the egg starts to divide shortly after being fertilised by sperm. About 10 days later, all of these new cells form an embryo. However, in a blighted ovum, the embryo never develops or stops growing after it forms. Your body may sense the chromosomal problem and naturally stop the pregnancy.
A blighted ovum is not caused by anything you did or didn’t do. In some cases, it may be linked to chromosome abnormalities or genetics. If you’ve had more than one blighted ovum, your doctor may suggest chromosome testing of your embryos. Most women who experience a blighted ovum later go on to have normal and healthy pregnancies.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Blighted Ovum?
A blighted ovum can sometimes end before you even know you’re pregnant. In such cases, you may mistake it for a period that is heavier than usual.If you have a blighted ovum, at first, you may notice signs of early pregnancy, such as:
- A positive pregnancy test
- Missed period
- Sore or tender breasts
As the pregnancy ends, you may develop symptoms of miscarriage, which can include:
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Abdominal cramps or pelvic pain
- Passing tissue or blood clots
- Disappearance of pregnancy symptoms, like breast soreness
NOTE: If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, it is important to see your doctor. It is also important to remember that not all bleeding in early pregnancy indicates a miscarriage. However, it is also best to get checked.
How Is a Blighted Ovum Diagnosed?
A blighted ovum is usually diagnosed by your healthcare provider in the first trimester. This often happens between weeks seven and nine of pregnancy. At this stage, an embryo should be visible on an ultrasound. Hence, a transvaginal ultrasound is the most common test performed for blighted ovum diagnosis.During the scan, your provider places a small wand inside your vagina to view the uterus. If you have a blighted ovum, the scan will show an empty gestational sac, even though the placenta may continue releasing hormones. This is why you may still have pregnancy symptoms or see a positive test result.
In some cases, blood tests are also used to diagnose a blighted ovum. These blood tests are done to check your hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels. In a healthy pregnancy, hCG rises quickly during the first weeks. If your hCG levels are low or not increasing as expected, it may indicate a miscarriage or complications. Your doctor might repeat the test over several days to see how the levels are changing.
What Are the Treatment Options for a Blighted Ovum?
If you have been diagnosed with a blighted ovum, your treatment will depend on various factors. The factors determining the best treatment for you include your health, stage of pregnancy, and personal preference. Your doctor will guide you through the options and help you decide what feels right for you.The main treatment choices for a blighted ovum include:
- Natural miscarriage: Sometimes, no treatment is needed for a blighted ovum because your body passes the pregnancy tissue on its own. This may take a few days or even weeks. When it begins, you will likely experience bleeding, cramping, and abdominal pain. Your doctor will schedule a follow-up to make sure your uterus is clear and to check for infection.
- Medication: You may be prescribed a medicine like misoprostol, which helps your body pass the tissue more quickly. It can take a few days and may cause heavy bleeding, cramping, or side effects.
- Surgical procedure (D&C): A dilation and curettage (D&C) involves gently opening the cervix and removing the pregnancy tissue. This option provides a quicker resolution and may help bring emotional closure. It also allows the tissue to be tested to confirm the cause of miscarriage, if needed.
A blighted ovum diagnosis can sound scary. And while a miscarriage due to a blighted ovum may be heartbreaking, it is important to remember it is no one’s fault. A blighted ovum happens because of chromosomal problems beyond your control, and most women who experience it go on to have healthy pregnancies later. If you have been diagnosed with a blighted ovum, speak to your doctor about your treatment options.
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FAQs on Blighted Ovum: Causes, Signs, and How to Cope Emotionally
- How long does recovery from a blighted ovum take?
Recovery after a blighted ovum can take one to four weeks. Cramping usually eases within a week, while bleeding may last longer and lighten over time. Your period often returns in four to six weeks, though emotional healing may take longer, and seeking support can help. - When can I get pregnant again after a blighted ovum?
In most cases, doctors advice to wait for 1-2 menstrual cycles before you begin trying to get pregnant again. As a blighted ovum leads to loss of pregnancy, it is best to ask your doctor when you can start trying to conceive again. - Can I conceive again after a blighted ovum?
Yes. Many women who experience a blighted ovum later go on to have healthy, full-term pregnancies.
