Is it possible for a blighted ovum to develop an embryo?
A blighted ovum refers to a condition in which, after dynamic observation following conception, a gestational sac is observed within the uterine cavity via ultrasound but without the presence of a yolk sac, embryo, or fetal heartbeat. Whether a blighted ovum can eventually develop an embryo depends on the duration of pregnancy. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Embryo may still develop
If the pregnancy duration is short, finding a blighted ovum is a normal phenomenon, possibly due to slower embryonic development. A follow-up examination after one week is recommended; typically, an embryo can be detected around 50 days of gestation.
2. Embryo will not develop
However, if more than 50 days have passed since conception and no embryo is found within the uterine cavity, a diagnosis of blighted ovum (anembryonic pregnancy) can be confirmed. This condition is mostly caused by abnormal embryonic development, such as chromosomal abnormalities, viral infections during early pregnancy, or poor quality of the sperm or egg. In such cases, an embryo will not develop.
If a blighted ovum is detected, it is advisable to seek prompt medical evaluation. If it is confirmed that the embryo cannot develop, treatment should be carried out under a doctor’s guidance to prevent harm to the body.