A blighted ovum is a type of miscarriage that can happen early in a pregnancy. It can be very upsetting and unexpected, but there is support available.
What is a blighted ovum?
A blighted ovum is a pregnancy where a sac and placenta grow, but a baby does not. It is also called an 'anembryonic pregnancy' as there is no embryo (developing baby). Because a blighted ovum still makes hormones, it can show up as a positive pregnancy test.
A blighted ovum will cause a miscarriage usually at 7 to 12 weeks of pregnancy. Your body realises the pregnancy is not developing properly and starts to shed blood and tissue from the uterus.
A miscarriage can be extremely upsetting. Many women need support and time to grieve. There is no right way to feel after a miscarriage. Different people react to a miscarriage with different emotions, including anger, guilt or relief. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby helpline can provide information and support on 1800 882 436.
What causes a blighted ovum?
When the egg is fertilised, cells that make the pregnancy sac and placenta start multiplying. But occasionally, the cells that are supposed to develop into a baby don | t multiply.
The cause isn | t known. It isn | t caused by anything you have done.
How and when is blighted ovum diagnosed?
Sometimes, it is picked up during a routine ultrasound. This can be particularly difficult for women who have gone for the ultrasound expecting good news.
At other times, there may have been bleeding at the start of the pregnancy and an ultrasound is used to investigate.
How is blighted ovum treated?
Your doctor will discuss the options with you. You might choose to allow a natural miscarriage to happen. Once this starts, it can take days to weeks for the bleeding to finish. If the bleeding is getting heavier, if you are in pain or you feel unwell, see your doctor.
You could also have a termination, whether by taking medicines or by a type of surgery known as D & C.
Does it affect my chances of having a baby?
No. Having a blighted ovum in one pregnancy does not alter your chance of having a successful pregnancy in the future.
For support and information
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby helpline can offer emotional support and trusted advice to anyone who is dealing with pregnancy loss. Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby on 1800 882 436 anytime of the day or night.
Sources:
positive pregnancy test but no baby on ultrasound?
