What Is a Molar Pregnancy?
A molar pregnancy — also known as a hydatidiform mole — is a rare complication of pregnancy characterized by the abnormal growth of trophoblasts, the cells that normally develop into the placenta. It is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). A molar pregnancy is not a viable pregnancy and cannot result in a live baby.
Types of Molar Pregnancy
- Complete Molar Pregnancy: An egg with no genetic information is fertilized by a sperm. It duplicates its own DNA, so there is no fetal tissue, only placental parts that grow abnormally.
- Partial Molar Pregnancy: A normal egg is fertilized by two sperm. This results in an abnormal fetus and an abnormal placenta, neither of which can survive.
Signs and Symptoms
A molar pregnancy may seem like a normal pregnancy at first, but it often causes specific signs, including:
- Dark brown to bright red vaginal bleeding in the first trimester.
- Severe nausea and vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum).
- A uterus that is unusually large for the stage of pregnancy.
- Very high hCG levels, which can cause other symptoms like high blood pressure or an overactive thyroid.
- Grape-like cysts passing from the vagina.
Treatment and Follow-Up
A molar pregnancy must be removed. The most common procedure is a dilation and curettage (D&C). After the procedure, follow-up care is critical. Your doctor will monitor your hCG levels for several months to a year to ensure they return to zero. This is because, in rare cases, the molar tissue can persist and continue to grow, which could lead to a form of cancer called choriocarcinoma. It is very important to avoid getting pregnant again until your doctor gives you the all-clear.
A molar pregnancy is a difficult and often frightening diagnosis. It's essential to have a strong support system and follow your doctor's care plan closely to ensure a healthy recovery.