Blighted Ovum

Alternate Names : Anembryonic Pregnancy, Preclinical Abortion

What are the treatments for the condition?

Rarely, a treatable condition is found to be the cause of the blighted ovum. For example, a low hormone level may rarely cause early egg death. In these cases, hormone pills such as progesterone may work.

If repeated early egg deaths occur, artificial fertilization may be effective in producing pregnancy. Genetic testing may also be advised to rule out genetic problems. While these are not treatable, they may indicate the need for a sperm or egg donor in order to have children.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Hormones can cause side effects, such as headaches, mood swings, and others. Artificial fertilization is expensive and does not always work. The risk of multiple births is often higher.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

In most women, the diagnosis is never made and treatment is never needed. Most women who have a blighted ovum go on to have a healthy child the next time they get pregnant.

If treatment occurs and is successful, a regular pregnancy occurs. Adoption is another option for many couples.

How is the condition monitored?

Most cases require no monitoring unless the woman or couple desires it. The abnormal pregnancy will eventually be aborted if no treatment to clean the uterus is performed.