Fetal resorption

Fetal resorption is a phenomenon that occurs in mammals when a pregnancy fails. In such cases, the fetus is reabsorbed by the mother, effectively erasing any physical evidence of the pregnancy. This process is different from a miscarriage, where the fetus is expelled from the body. Fetal resorption is a common occurrence in many species of mammals, including rodents, dogs, and cats, but is less common in primates, including humans.

Causes

The exact cause of fetal resorption is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a result of a variety of factors. These can include genetic abnormalities in the fetus, maternal stress, poor maternal health, or inadequate maternal nutrition. In some cases, the mother's immune system may also play a role, as it may fail to recognize the fetus as part of the body and instead attack it as if it were a foreign object.

Process

Fetal resorption begins when the fetus dies. The mother's body then begins to break down the fetal tissue, a process that can take several days to weeks. The tissue is then reabsorbed into the mother's body, where it is broken down further and eventually excreted.

Implications

Fetal resorption can have several implications for the mother. Physically, the process can be taxing, as the body must work to break down and remove the fetal tissue. Emotionally, the loss of a pregnancy can be devastating. In some cases, the mother may not even be aware that she was pregnant, as the resorption can occur before the pregnancy is detected.

In Humans

While fetal resorption is less common in humans than in other mammals, it does occur. It is most often seen in early pregnancy, before the pregnancy has been detected. In these cases, the woman may experience what appears to be a normal menstrual period, unaware that a pregnancy has failed. In later pregnancies, fetal resorption can result in a missed abortion, where the fetus dies but is not expelled from the body.

See Also

• Pregnancy
• Miscarriage
• Missed abortion