Blighted ovum is also called anembryonic pregnancy or anembryonic gestation. It occurs when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall but the embryo does not develop. This is often due to chromosomal changes in the fertilized egg which causes the body to naturally miscarry. Blighted ovum usually occurs in the first few weeks of pregnancy even before the woman knows she is pregnant.

What are the causes of a blighted ovum ?

It is usually caused by chromosomal problems. When a woman’s body senses chromosomal abnormalities in a fetus, it will naturally not continue with the pregnancy because the fetus will not develop into a healthy baby. Chromosomal abnormalities can be caused by poor quality egg or sperm or abnormal cell division.

Would I know if I had a blighted ovum ?

Most women do not know they have a blighted ovum because it usually happens very early in pregnancy even before you know you are pregnant.

You may miss your period or even have positive pregnancy test. This is because the placenta secretes the pregnancy hormone  human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). However the placenta stops growing and the hormone level decreases. You may experience mild cramping and bleeding. A diagnosis may not be made until an  ultrasound  shows an empty gestational sac.

Would I require a D&C for blighted ovum ?

D&C is usually not recommended for an early pregnancy loss because the body is capable of passing the tissue on its own. However if  you want a pathologist to examine the cause of your pregnancy loss, a D&C may be required. Some women may also want a D&C for personal reasons. This decision is however totally up to you.

Can a blighted ovum be prevented ?

There is no known way to prevent this condition. You may want to seek genetic counseling if you have had multiple pregnancy losses.A woman rarely experiences a blighted ovum more than once. It is recommended by doctors that most couples wait at least 1-3 regular menstrual cycles before trying to conceive again after any type of miscarriage.