Hello doctor! I was 6 weeks pregnant when I went to see a doctor, and I was diagnosed with a non-viable pregnancy due to the absence of a fetal heartbeat. A week later, I experienced abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. When I went to the hospital, it was confirmed that the placenta had passed. The ultrasound showed no remaining pregnancy tissue, only residual fluid and blood clots. Essentially, I experienced a miscarriage, but two days later, I suffered severe abdominal pain and expelled tissue resembling a tiny fetus, about the size of a baby’s pinky finger.
So, doctor, I would like to ask:
“Why did my 6-week pregnancy stop developing, and why did vaginal bleeding result in fetal-like tissue?”
If there was still pregnancy tissue in my uterus at the time of placental expulsion, could the fetus still have been alive?
Thank you for your advice!
-Question from an anonymous patient.
Answer:
Regarding your question: “Why did my 6-week pregnancy stop developing, and why did vaginal bleeding result in fetal-like tissue?” here is the explanation:
In your case, the initial 6-week non-viable pregnancy diagnosis was based on certain clinical indicators, such as the absence of fetal cardiac activity. However, this conclusion is typically supported by other signs, such as the contour of the gestational sac, amniotic fluid levels, and the yolk sac's appearance.
When you noticed vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain a week later, it was likely the onset of miscarriage. By the time you underwent the ultrasound, only blood clots and fluid remained in your uterus, which is typical when a pregnancy has ceased to develop.
The tissue you observed two days later during severe abdominal pain was not the fetus or placenta but rather residual blood clots and uterine contents. At such an early stage of pregnancy, it is not possible to visually recognize the fetus or placental tissue with the naked eye. In fact, even medical professionals often require specialized techniques, such as rinsing and microscopic examination, to identify these components.
To better understand your condition and receive comprehensive guidance on reproductive health and family planning, you may consider visiting a hospital within the Vinmec Healthcare System. Here, experienced and highly skilled obstetrics and gynecology specialists can provide the best advice and care tailored to your needs.
Thank you for trusting and submitting your question to Vinmec. Wishing you good health!
Sincerely,
Trinh Thi Thanh Huyen MSc, MD
Obstetrician-Gynecologist
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Vinmec International General Hospital, Hai Phong
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
