Is it necessary to send an embryo for examination if embryonic arrest occurs?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on April 15, 2025
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After fetal growth restriction occurs, it is still necessary to send the fetus for examination after dealing with any abnormalities that arise. There are many factors that can cause embryonic arrest, such as maternal factors, abnormal immune function, and the environment of the pregnant woman. More importantly, factors related to the embryo, such as chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo, are the main cause of embryonic arrest. Therefore, after embryonic arrest occurs, it is recommended to go to the hospital for a fetal chromosomal examination to lay a good foundation for the next conception.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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What are the reasons for embryonic arrest with no fetal heartbeat?

Embryonic arrest without a fetal heartbeat can be caused by many factors. For example, taking medications prohibited during pregnancy, exposure to harmful substances, radiation, or infections with bacteria or viruses during pregnancy. Other factors include genetic issues and poor emotional state of the pregnant woman during pregnancy. All these factors can affect the normal development of the embryo. If an ultrasound examination reveals no fetal heartbeat, it can be determined that the embryo has ceased to develop, and prompt treatment should be carried out.

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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 Liu Wen Li
Obstetrics
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What happens if there is embryonic arrest without miscarriage?

If an embryo stops developing but is not miscarried, the retained embryonic tissue can disrupt the clotting function in the pregnant woman’s body over time, leading to a condition called a missed miscarriage. Therefore, after a missed miscarriage occurs, it is important to check the duration it has been retained. If it has been a considerable amount of time, clotting function should be examined. If clotting is still within normal ranges, it is crucial to expedite the process allowing the woman to expel the non-viable embryonic tissue as soon as possible, which is beneficial for her health.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Can an ultrasound detect an embryonic arrest?

Embryonic arrest refers to a condition in early pregnancy where no fetal heartbeat appears in the gestational sac. The diagnostic criteria mainly include the lack of observable primitive heart tube pulsation via ultrasound after two months of pregnancy, at which point embryonic arrest can be confirmed. The definitive diagnosis of embryonic arrest is primarily through ultrasound. The following situations observed during an ultrasound can lead to a diagnosis of embryonic arrest: 1. If the diameter of the gestational sac exceeds three centimeters without a clear fetal heartbeat or embryo visible inside, it can be diagnosed as embryonic arrest. 2. If an embryo is already present and approximately 10 days after the appearance of the embryo, an ultrasound still does not show a fetal heartbeat, this situation can also be determined as embryonic arrest.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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What to do about abdominal pain caused by embryonic arrest?

After discovering an embryonic arrest accompanied by abdominal pain, it is important to observe whether there is vaginal bleeding or expulsion of embryonic tissue. If the embryo is not expelled in time, an immediate uterine evacuation surgery is necessary to avoid the risk of intrauterine infection and impact on health. After the surgery, it is important to rest, enhance nutrition, and eat foods rich in vitamins and proteins. Moreover, a week later, a visit to the hospital for an ultrasound should be conducted to check if the expulsion was complete and to understand the recovery status of the uterus.