Understanding Blighted Ovum: Causes, Symptoms, and Support After Early Pregnancy Loss

Highlights

• A blighted ovum (also known as an anembryonic pregnancy) is an early miscarriage where the sac and placenta form, but the embryo does not.
• This type of pregnancy loss can happen early, and although emotionally difficult, it does not affect your chances of a successful pregnancy in the future.
• Diagnosis is typically made via ultrasound, and treatment may involve medication or surgical procedures, depending on the situation.

In This Article

• What is a Blighted Ovum?
• Symptoms of a Blighted Ovum
• Causes of a Blighted Ovum
• When Should I See My Doctor?
• Diagnosing a Blighted Ovum
• Treatment for a Blighted Ovum
• Preventing a Blighted Ovum
• Getting Support After a Blighted Ovum
• Does a Blighted Ovum Affect Future Pregnancies?
• Tools and Assistance

What is a Blighted Ovum?

A blighted ovum, sometimes referred to as an anembryonic pregnancy, is an early miscarriage where the gestational sac and placenta form, but the embryo does not develop. Despite the formation of the sac and placenta, there is no developing baby. This condition results in pregnancy loss, typically between 7 and 12 weeks of pregnancy. A blighted ovum is a type of early pregnancy loss and does not indicate any issues with a woman’s health or future fertility.

Symptoms of a Blighted Ovum

The symptoms of a blighted ovum miscarriage are similar to other early types of miscarriage and may include:

• Pain or cramping in the lower abdomen (tummy)
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider to confirm whether it’s related to a blighted ovum or other conditions that may require attention.

Causes of a Blighted Ovum

The exact cause of a blighted ovum is unknown. However, it’s believed that after fertilization, the egg’s cells do not divide as expected, preventing the development of the embryo. Although the sac and placenta may form, no embryo develops. A blighted ovum is generally a random occurrence and is not caused by anything a woman did or did not do. It does not impact a woman’s health or future fertility.

When Should I See My Doctor?

If you experience pain or cramping in the lower abdomen and vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy, you should consult your healthcare provider. These symptoms could indicate a blighted ovum, but they may also be signs of other conditions, so it’s important to get professional guidance.

Diagnosing a Blighted Ovum

A blighted ovum is typically diagnosed via ultrasound. If there is bleeding in early pregnancy, the ultrasound will show a gestational sac but no developing embryo or fetal heartbeat. In some cases, a blighted ovum may be detected during a routine ultrasound, which can be an emotional and difficult moment for many women. Early diagnosis is crucial for determining the best course of treatment.

Treatment for a Blighted Ovum

Treatment for a blighted ovum varies based on the individual’s situation. After diagnosis, your healthcare provider will discuss the best treatment options with you, which may include:

• Watchful waiting: If the miscarriage is progressing naturally, you may choose to wait for the body to expel the pregnancy tissue. This process can take several days or even weeks, and regular follow-up with your doctor is important to ensure it is progressing as expected.
• Medications: Certain medications can help the body expel the pregnancy tissue more quickly. These are prescribed if the miscarriage has not progressed naturally.
• Surgical procedure (D&C): In some cases, a dilatation and curettage (D&C) procedure may be necessary. This surgical procedure, usually performed under general anesthesia, removes the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

Preventing a Blighted Ovum

There is no way to prevent a blighted ovum, as it is generally a random occurrence related to the development of the pregnancy. However, there are general health recommendations that may improve your chances of having a healthy pregnancy in the future, such as:

• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Limiting caffeine intake
• Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet with essential nutrients
• Managing stress levels and getting adequate rest

Taking care of your overall health supports the body’s ability to handle future pregnancies.

Getting Support After a Blighted Ovum

Experiencing a miscarriage, especially a blighted ovum, can be emotionally difficult. It is normal to grieve and experience a range of emotions. Whether you feel sadness, guilt, anger, or even relief, it’s important to allow yourself to process these feelings. Seeking support from loved ones, a healthcare provider, or professional counselors can be helpful.

Your healthcare provider can offer information about counseling services or direct you to support groups to help guide you through the emotional aspects of this experience.

Does a Blighted Ovum Affect Future Pregnancies?

A blighted ovum does not impact your ability to have a successful pregnancy in the future. Most women who experience a blighted ovum will go on to have healthy pregnancies later on. If you experience multiple miscarriages, it’s worth discussing this with your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions that might affect your fertility or pregnancy outcomes.

Tools and Assistance

If you’ve experienced a blighted ovum, there are various tools and forms of assistance available to support you physically and emotionally:

• Emotional support: Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional can help you process your experience. Journaling, mindfulness, and guided meditation may also offer emotional relief.
• Counseling services: Speaking with a therapist who specializes in grief or pregnancy loss can be beneficial. Some people find individual counseling helpful, while others prefer group support.
• Support groups: Many people find comfort in connecting with others who have experienced early pregnancy loss. Sharing your experience and hearing from others can reduce feelings of isolation and provide reassurance.
• Medical follow-up: After treatment, follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are important to ensure your physical recovery is progressing well. You can also discuss plans or considerations for future pregnancies.
• Educational resources: Reading about pregnancy loss, reproductive health, and fertility can empower you with knowledge and help prepare you for future pregnancies.
• Well-being tools: Apps and tools that promote relaxation, sleep, or gentle physical activity (such as yoga or stretching) can support your overall health during recovery.

Remember, healing is personal, and there’s no “right” way to move forward. Taking time to care for your body and mental health is essential, and seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.