Management of anembryonic pregnancy loss: an observational study.

BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to determine if expectant management with a longer waiting period is an effective and safe option for women with anembryonic pregnancy.

METHODS: Women with an ultrasound diagnosis of anembryonic pregnancy were offered the option of expectant management with a 3-week waiting period or surgical evacuation according to their preference.

RESULTS: A total of 121 women with anembryonic pregnancies participated in the study; 45 of them elected expectant management. The overall success rate was 83.3% in the expectant group and 97.3% in the surgical group. No significant complications were noted in either group.

CONCLUSION: Expectant management with a 3-week waiting period is an efficacious and safe option with a low risk of infection and hemorrhage. However, it is difficult to predict the exact time period before spontaneous abortion.