Types of molar pregnancy

In a complete molar pregnancy, abnormal placental tissue grows without a developing embryo. In a partial molar pregnancy, abnormal placental tissue grows alongside some embryonic or fetal tissue, but the pregnancy cannot develop normally. Ultrasound and laboratory testing may suggest the diagnosis, while examination of tissue after treatment helps confirm the type.

Bleeding between periods or bleeding during pregnancy can occur, as can severe nausea, pelvic pressure, or a uterus that is larger than expected. These findings have other possible causes, so symptoms alone cannot identify a molar pregnancy. Follow-up matters because abnormal placental cells can sometimes remain after the pregnancy tissue is removed.

Contact an obstetric or gynaecology team for assessment rather than arranging treatment alone. Management commonly involves removing the abnormal pregnancy tissue, followed by repeated pregnancy-hormone blood tests until the level falls as expected. Keep every follow-up appointment and ask when it is medically appropriate to try for another pregnancy. Persistent disease may need specialist chemotherapy.

Seek prompt medical assessment for vaginal bleeding, severe vomiting, pelvic pain, dizziness, or faintness during pregnancy or after treatment. Go to urgent care for heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, chest pain, breathing difficulty, or collapse. Do not wait for a routine appointment if symptoms are rapidly worsening.

Does the scan suggest a complete or partial mole? How will the diagnosis be confirmed? What procedure is planned, and how will bleeding be managed? How often will hormone levels be checked? What symptoms should prompt urgent help, and when can future pregnancy be considered?