Understanding Blighted Ovum Pregnancy

A blighted ovum(also called an anembryonic pregnancy)

 happens when a pregnancy sac develops inside the uterus, but the embryo does not grow or stops very early. It is one of the most common causes of early miscarriage.  

🔹 Why does it happen?

1.  Chromosomal abnormalities (the most frequent cause).  
2.  Poor egg or sperm quality.  
3.  Problems with implantation.  
4.  Rarely due to infections or other health conditions.  
5.  Risk increases with maternal age.  

🔹 Can it be prevented?

In most cases, it is a random event and cannot be completely avoided.  

But you can reduce the risk by:  

•  Doing preconception health checks.  
•  Taking folic acid before pregnancy.  
•  Maintaining a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, exercise, no smoking/alcohol).  
•  If recurrent miscarriages happen, both partners may need chromosomal testing.  

🔹 Guidelines for management (ACOG/RCOG):

Diagnosis is usually made by transvaginal ultrasound.  

Management options include:  

•  Expectant:waiting for natural miscarriage.  
•  Medical: using medication like misoprostol. 
•  Surgical: D&C or vacuum aspiration.  

✨ Most women who experience a blighted ovum can still have a completely normal pregnancy in the future.

💬 As an obstetrician, I always remind my patients that this is not their fault — it’s nature’s way of protecting the body. With care and hope, future pregnancies are usually successful. 🌿💙  

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