Medicines for Molar pregnancy

What it is

A molar pregnancy is a rare complication of early pregnancy in which the tissue that would normally develop into the placenta grows abnormally, and a normal pregnancy does not develop. It is caused by a problem with the genetic material at fertilisation. There are two types: a "complete" mole, where there is no baby and only the abnormal tissue, and a "partial" mole, where there may be some abnormal fetal tissue but the pregnancy cannot survive. Symptoms can include vaginal bleeding or a dark discharge in early pregnancy, severe morning sickness, and a womb that is larger than expected, though sometimes it is found on a routine early pregnancy scan. It is understandably distressing, as it means the loss of a pregnancy. It is important to recognise and treat because, in a small proportion of cases, some abnormal tissue can persist or, rarely, develop into a condition needing further treatment — which is why careful follow-up is arranged.

How it is treated

A molar pregnancy is confirmed by ultrasound and by testing the pregnancy tissue. The main treatment is to remove the abnormal tissue from the womb, usually with a minor procedure. Afterwards — and this is an important part of care — the person is followed up by a specialist centre with blood (and sometimes urine) tests that measure the pregnancy hormone (hCG) over time, to make sure the levels fall to normal and that no abnormal tissue remains. In most people, the levels return to normal and no further treatment is needed. In a small number, the hormone does not fall as expected, indicating persistent tissue, which is treated (usually very successfully). Women are advised to avoid becoming pregnant again until follow-up is complete, as a new pregnancy would interfere with the hormone monitoring. Emotional support is important, given the loss involved. The outlook is very good, and most women go on to have normal future pregnancies.