Anembryonic pregnancy, also known as a blighted ovum, is a condition in which a gestational sac is formed, but the development of an embryo does not take place. Although the term “blighted ovum” is not as commonly used as before due to its lack of descriptiveness, it refers to the same condition. While the exact number of anembryonic pregnancies remains unknown, it is estimated that they account for approximately half of all miscarriages that occur within the first trimester.
Abnormalities in the Embryo: Causes and Connections
When it comes to early pregnancy loss, studying embryonic pregnancies and anembryonic pregnancies can shed light on the causes. Among the possible abnormalities in the embryo, chromosomal abnormalities are the most common, leading to a condition called a blighted ovum. Furthermore, research has shown a correlation between sperm carrying DNA damage and miscarriage during early pregnancy.
Maternal Factors
There are various maternal factors that may contribute to anembryonic pregnancy. These factors include obesity, advanced maternal age, genital tract infections, malformation of the uterus, and immunologic disorders. It is also worth noting that hormonal factors, such as low progesterone levels and thyroid dysfunction, can play a role in this type of pregnancy loss. Additionally, experts have found a link between polycystic ovary disease and early pregnancy loss, although it is challenging to determine which type of pregnancy loss it specifically causes – embryonic or anembryonic.