Missed Abortion

OVERVIEW

A missed abortion refers to the death of an embryo/fetus before 20 weeks gestation (with complete retention of all products of conception).

WHAT MAKES US SUSPECT IT?

Initial presentation:

  • Patient is asymptomatic 
  • Decreased pregnancy symptoms (less nausea, breast tenderness)

Physical Exam:

  • No vaginal bleeding is most typical
  • Closed cervical os
CLINCIAL WORKUP

Fetal ultrasonography can demonstrate the following:

  • Empty gestational sac
  • No fetal cardiac activity

 

 

Page Updated: 11.01.2016