A molar pregnancy is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease. It occurs when the fertilisation of an egg by sperm goes wrong, and it results in the growth of abnormal cells or clusters of water filled sacs inside the womb.
Molar pregnancies are rare, but they can cause problems if they are not treated as soon as possible. This is because molar pregnancies can lead to serious conditions such as gestational trophoblastic myelomeningocele (GTN), and choriocarcinoma, a very rare form of cancer.
Some women who have a molar pregnancy do not show any symptoms, but you may be able to tell if you have a molar pregnancy by looking at your ultrasound scan or blood tests. These can be done at a prenatal doctor appointment or in the early stages of pregnancy when you are not showing any of the classic signs and symptoms of a normal pregnancy.
The most common symptom of a molar pregnancy is vaginal bleeding. This can happen at any stage of a pregnancy but it is particularly likely to occur during the first trimester. It is caused by the growth of abnormal cells in the uterus and can be very painful.
You can also have nausea and vomiting as a result of molar pregnancy. This is because the amount of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is higher than normal, and this can make you feel very sick.
Your red blood cell count can be low, which can make you feel tired and breathless. This can also mean that your baby is growing faster than normal, and you might feel as though you’re losing weight more quickly.
Another complication that can be caused by molar pregnancies is anaemia, which is a condition where you don’t have enough oxygen in your blood. This can cause a loss of energy and can make it harder to do things like walk or work around the house.
Anaemia can be serious, so it is important that you see your doctor as soon as you start to experience these symptoms. They will be able to check your hCG levels and give you medication if necessary.
You will need to avoid getting pregnant for six months to a year after you have had treatment. Your doctors will let you know when you can get pregnant again and they will suggest the best contraceptive for you to use while you are avoiding pregnancy.
A molar pregnancy is a traumatic experience and it can be hard for you to come to terms with what has happened. It can also be upsetting for your family and friends, and you may want to share your feelings with them.
If you are having trouble dealing with your molar pregnancy, you can talk to a maternal child health nurse for support. They can offer emotional and practical support and be a sounding board. You can call them on 1800 882 436 or chat online to them.
