What are the symptoms of molar pregnancy?
A molar pregnancy is generally suspected when a woman experiences excessive or persistent nausea and vomiting, spotting (usually dark blood) or cramping, or when the midwife or doctor notes that the uterus is “large for dates.” In some instances, the mother may have high blood pressure. Occasionally, signs of elevated thyroid occur, including tremors, rapid heart rate and warm skin. Levels of beta hCG (a hormone produced during pregnancy) are elevated as the overgrowth of placental tissue accelerates. This tissue is seen on the ultrasound as cysts that look like clusters of grapes. The mass within the uterus characteristically has a “snowstorm” pattern. What’s the treatment for molar pregnancy? When a hydatidiform mole is diagnosed, your doctor will recommend an immediate evacuation (D&C, or dilation and curettage) along with chemotherapy. Even a small amount of retained tissue may continue to proliferate, forming a cancer known as choriocarcinoma. Approximately 20 percent of women wit
