A blighted ovum is characterized through ultrasound by the absence of an embryo (anembryonic pregnancy). This means that the egg does not develop fully into a baby. Blighted ovum are associated with a high incidence of chromosomal abnormalities. This condition seems to occur more often in older women.

Statistics suggest that around 60% of first trimester miscarriages are due to chromosomal abnormalities unique to that pregnancy. Usually the chromosomal abnormality lies in the individual egg. The chances of having another blighted ovum are not increased due to having a previous blighted ovum.

Repeated cased of a blighted ovum may indicate a genetic or physical disorder in the parents. Low hormone levels can also be to blame in a small percentage of cases.

If the miscarriage does not happen spontaneously, the doctor may suggest a D & C (dilation and curettage) in order to lessen the trauma of having to wait for it to happen naturally.

• Trying to Conceive After 35 – What are the Risks of Birth Defects?
• Does Endometriosis Carry A Higher Risk Of Miscarriage?
• Infertility Causes – Poor Egg Quality
• Can Miscarriage Cause Infertility?
• How Do We Know Who Has the Fertility Problem?
• Follicle Stimulating Hormone And Infertility Problems
• What Is A Chemical Pregnancy?
• How Do They Test for a Low Sperm Count?
• Should We Have Genetic Counseling Before Trying to Conceive?
• Should We Have Genetic Counseling Before Trying to Conceive?
• Infertility Testing And FSH Levels
• What Does FSH Mean?

This entry was posted under Fertility Issues.