Understanding hCG Levels in Empty Gestational Sac: Blighted Ovum Explained

Discover if hCG levels can rise in an empty gestational sac and what it means for pregnancy health.

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Yes, hCG levels can still rise even if the gestational sac is empty. This condition is known as a blighted ovum or anembryonic pregnancy. It occurs when an early embryo stops developing, but the gestational sac continues to grow and hCG hormone levels increase, indicating pregnancy.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is a blighted ovum? A blighted ovum, or anembryonic pregnancy, is a condition where an embryo does not develop, but the gestational sac continues to form, often leading to increasing hCG hormone levels.
  2. Can hCG levels rise without a visible embryo? Yes, hCG levels can rise even when there is no visible embryo. This often occurs in cases of a blighted ovum.
  3. What are the symptoms of a blighted ovum? Common symptoms of a blighted ovum include the absence of a fetal heartbeat during ultrasound, spotting or bleeding, and other typical pregnancy symptoms without signs of a developing embryo.
  4. How is a blighted ovum diagnosed? A blighted ovum is typically diagnosed through an ultrasound, which shows an empty gestational sac, and by monitoring hCG levels, which may initially rise but fail to confirm a developing embryo.

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