A positive pregnancy test result is generally an early sign of pregnancy. However, in some women, an ultrasound examination reveals a gestational sac without a developing embryo. This condition is known as a blighted ovum (anembryonic pregnancy) .
A blighted ovum is one cause of miscarriage in the first trimester. This condition occurs when a fertilized egg successfully implants in the uterine wall and forms a gestational sac , but the embryo fails to develop early on.
However, the pregnancy tissue still produces human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) , the hormone detected by pregnancy tests. This is why the test result remains positive, and the mother may still experience pregnancy symptoms, such as a missed period, nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, or fatigue.
Why Can a Blighted Ovum Occur?
The most common cause of a blighted ovum is a chromosomal abnormality that occurs during fertilization. This abnormality prevents the embryo from developing normally, causing the body to naturally terminate the pregnancy. Most cases occur spontaneously and are not caused by daily activities or maternal errors during pregnancy.
Several factors that can increase the risk include increasing maternal age, declining egg or sperm quality, and impaired cell division early in pregnancy. However, it's important to understand that a blighted ovum is not caused by fatigue, light exercise, travel, work, or sexual intercourse.
Is a Blighted Ovum Dangerous?
A blighted ovum is generally harmless if diagnosed and treated appropriately. However, if the pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus for too long, it can lead to complications such as prolonged bleeding, infection, or incomplete miscarriage.
In addition to the physical impacts, a blighted ovum can also be emotionally burdensome for expectant parents. Therefore, family support and medical assistance are crucial during the treatment and recovery process.
How is Blighted Ovum Treated?
A diagnosis of a blighted ovum can only be confirmed through an ultrasound examination by an obstetrician and gynecologist (OBGYN). Treatment will be tailored to the mother's condition, gestational age, and the test results.
In some cases, a doctor may choose to observe the pregnancy tissue until it passes naturally. If necessary, the doctor may prescribe medication to assist in the expulsion process. Curettage or vacuum aspiration is usually performed if the tissue is not completely expelled, there is excessive bleeding, or there are other medical indications. Not all cases of blighted ovum require curettage, so treatment decisions will be based on the doctor's evaluation.
Can a Blighted Ovum Be Prevented?
Most blighted pregnancies cannot be prevented because they occur due to chromosomal abnormalities that arise spontaneously. However, the risk of pregnancy complications can be reduced by adopting a healthy lifestyle before conceiving, taking folic acid as recommended by your doctor, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and undergoing a medical examination before planning a pregnancy.
Immediately See a Specialist
A blighted ovum, or blighted ovum, is a condition in which a gestational sac forms but the embryo does not develop. Even if the pregnancy test results remain positive, this condition can only be confirmed through a timely ultrasound examination. Most cases are due to chromosomal abnormalities and are not due to any fault of the mother during pregnancy.
If your pregnancy test result is positive, don't rely solely on it to confirm your pregnancy. See an obstetrician and gynecologist (OBGYN) immediately so your pregnancy can be monitored via ultrasound. Early detection helps ensure the pregnancy is progressing well and allows for prompt and appropriate treatment if a blighted ovum or other pregnancy complications are discovered.
This article was written by Dr. Lisa Puspadewi Susanto, Sp.OG, FICS (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).