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Blighted ovum (anembryonic pregnancy)
Blighted ovum is a form of abnormal pregnancy development. For some reason, at conception, the embryo fails to develop and the pregnancy therefore consists of an empty sac. The pregnancy will feel normal to the mother. However, 6 to 10 weeks into the pregnancy, she may start experiencing light vaginal spotting or bleeding. An ultrasound scan will easily and conclusively establish the diagnosis.
Causes of blighted ovum
The causes are not known. It is thought to be a result of a catastrophic structural or chromosomal abnormality which makes fetal development impossible. It has nothing to do with the pregnant woman's actions or lack of them.
Effect of blighted ovum on future pregnancy
Blighted ovum will has no bearing whatsoever on future pregnancies. The chances of a normal pregnancy, following a blighted ovum, are not diminished in any way.
Management of blighted ovum
Most gynecologists will probably offer evacuation of the uterus (a procedure popularly known as D&C).
It is a minor procedure performed in the operating theatre, usually under a general anesthetic. It usually takes about fifteen to twenty minutes and the hospital stay should not be more than a few hours.
A blighted ovum can also be managed medically, using drugs which facilitate the expulsion of the uterine contents. The drugs are usually administered orally and vaginally. The oral tablet is usually taken first followed by the vaginal tablet 24 to 48 hours later. The miscarriage will conclude shortly after this. However, in a few cases, evacuation might still prove necessary.
A third alternative is the so-
