What are the causes of embryonic arrest?

Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
Updated on September 25, 2024
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If an embryonic arrest is discovered, there are many specific reasons for the arrest. Firstly, the main reason for embryonic arrest is due to congenital abnormalities in the formation and development of the fertilized egg, which is a relatively common situation. Moreover, embryonic arrest usually occurs early when there are developmental abnormalities. In some cases, it may be caused by maternal factors, such as abnormal diseases in the mother or abnormalities in chromosomes, which can lead to poor embryonic development and subsequently cause embryonic arrest. Occasionally, issues related to the viability of the male sperm, or the presence of abnormal sperm, may also lead to embryonic arrest. Because there are many reasons for embryonic arrest, it is generally not possible to systematically investigate the specific causes.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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How to handle bleeding due to embryonic arrest?

If it has already been determined that the embryo has ceased to develop and significant vaginal bleeding has occurred, it is likely that the bleeding is caused by uterine contractions stimulated by the halted embryonic development. In this case, it is first necessary to seek medical attention promptly. After confirming the halted development of the embryo, it is important to perform a surgical abortion promptly to completely remove all tissues associated with the ceased embryonic development, reducing the occurrence of post-abortion bleeding. After the surgery, it is also necessary to promptly use antibiotics to prevent infections within the uterine cavity.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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What are the reasons for two instances of embryonic arrest?

According to current medical viewpoints, there are various reasons for embryonic arrest, but in 50% of cases, the cause is unknown. Identified causes can generally be divided into several categories such as chromosomal issues, maternal metabolic issues including thyroid disorders, diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Additionally, immune factors such as lupus erythematosus or Sjögren's syndrome, along with abnormal antibodies, are also reasons. Furthermore, abnormal maternal anatomical structures, like abnormal uterine development, can lead to embryonic arrest. Paternal factors, such as abnormal sperm, can also result in embryonic arrest. Upon encountering embryonic arrest, if it occurs once, it can be observed initially. However, if there are two or more instances, comprehensive examinations for both partners are necessary, including chromosomal tests.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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What is the progesterone level for embryonic arrest?

When an embryo stops developing, the progesterone level will gradually decrease, but how much it can decrease is uncertain; it depends on the gestational age and individual differences. However, if an embryo stops developing, the progesterone level usually does not exceed 20. Therefore, during pregnancy, it is essential for pregnant women to maintain good living habits, avoid harmful factors, rest well, strengthen nutrition, abstain from sexual intercourse in early pregnancy, avoid misuse of medication, and be vigilant about symptoms like vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Embryonic arrest generally occurs at what time?

First, let's discuss what embryonic arrest means. There are two scenarios of embryonic arrest. The first scenario is where the embryo initially does not develop well, leading to the cessation of development in the very early stages of pregnancy. The second scenario occurs when the embryo initially develops well, but after a period, embryonic arrest happens. Therefore, embryonic arrest generally occurs during early pregnancy but can also occur later, around the middle of early pregnancy. It can happen at any time, but it is most commonly identified after 8 weeks. However, some cases involve the presence of an embryonic bud and heart tube, and embryonic arrest can still occur even at 10 or 11 weeks.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Why is there still morning sickness when the embryo has stopped developing?

After a missed miscarriage occurs, the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the body does not immediately drop to normal levels, so symptoms of morning sickness may still occur. As the hormone levels decrease gradually following the embryonic demise, these symptoms of morning sickness will also gradually ease and even disappear. Therefore, it is important to address a missed miscarriage promptly. This can be managed through surgical abortion or medication-induced abortion to avoid prolonged untreated cases, which could lead to gynecological inflammation or abnormalities in blood coagulation functions.