A molar pregnancy (also called hydatidiform mole) is usually not a real pregnancy with a baby. What happens instead is that something causes the organ that normally provides oxygen and food to a growing baby (called the placenta) to grow quickly and abnormally into a tumor.
This tumor contains many tiny pockets called cysts, and resembles a bunch of grapes. It can become a cancer, but this is rare.
Only 1 in about 2,000 pregnancies is a molar pregnancy. Occasionally, a baby does develop, but it is usually not normal and dies before birth.
During a molar pregnancy, women often have very bad nausea and vomiting. Some doctors think this is because they have a much higher than normal amount of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) in their blood. Other symptoms include severe tiredness and bleeding from the vagina.
If your doctor thinks your pregnancy might be a molar pregnancy, you will probably have an ultrasound scan and a blood test to measure your level of HCG. If you have a hydatidiform mole, you will need an operation to remove the mole (and baby if there is one) as well as checkups with your doctor afterward.
If cancer cells are found, you might need treatment with drugs. But this is rare. Most women don't need any more treatment. Your doctor may monitor your HCG level for about two years to check for cancer. The most likely time for cancer to grow is during the year after your pregnancy. Doctors usually advise women not to get pregnant during this time.
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This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved. |
