Molar pregnancy

Overview

A molar pregnancy forms when the placenta grows abnormally. There's usually no baby or a baby that can't survive.

After removal, hCG is checked until it's zero to make sure no tissue remains.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Bleeding in early pregnancy
• Grape-like tissue passed, or severe vomiting with bleeding in early pregnancy

Less common

• Severe nausea
• Very high hCG

Look up a symptom: Grape-like tissue passed, or severe vomiting with bleeding in early pregnancy · Pregnant or recently gave birth

When to get medical care

Causes

Abnormal fertilization.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women under 20 or over 40: Higher risk

Possible complications

• Gestational trophoblastic disease: Tissue keeps growing; needs follow-up

Diagnosis

Ultrasound and hCG.

Treatment

Follow up.

Self-care

• Use birth control during follow-up
• Keep hormone follow-up tests

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Under 20 or over 35: Higher risk.
• Women under 20 or over 40: Higher risk.

Outlook

Cured with treatment.

Cure rates are very high.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• How long will follow-up last?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Molar pregnancy