Understanding Hydatidiform Mole: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Hydatidiform mole, also known as molar pregnancy or gestational trophoblastic disease, is a rare abnormality that occurs during pregnancy. It is caused by the abnormal growth of cells that are supposed to develop into the placenta, which provides nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus. Instead of forming a healthy placenta, the cells form a mass or tumor that can cause complications for both the mother and the fetus.
- Symptoms: One of the most common symptoms of hydatidiform mole is vaginal bleeding during the first trimester of pregnancy. The bleeding may be light or heavy, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal cramping and nausea. Other symptoms may include rapid uterine growth, preeclampsia, and hyperthyroidism.
- Causes: The exact cause of hydatidiform mole is not well understood, but it is thought to be related to problems with the fertilization process. In most cases, the mole is caused by a chromosomal abnormality that occurs when the egg is fertilized by an empty sperm, or when two sperm fertilize the egg. Other risk factors may include maternal age (women over 35 are at higher risk), a history of molar pregnancy, and certain genetic disorders.
- Treatment: If hydatidiform mole is suspected, an ultrasound will be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment usually involves a procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C), which removes the abnormal tissue from the uterus. After the procedure, the patient will be monitored closely to make sure that there are no complications. In some cases, chemotherapy may be necessary to treat residual disease or prevent recurrence.
Overall, hydatidiform mole is a rare but serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Women who experience vaginal bleeding during pregnancy should seek medical attention right away to rule out this and other potential complications.