What Is a Non-Viable Pregnancy? Causes and What to Do Next

By Dr. Kulsoom Baloch

Learn more about Dr. Baloch

Introduction

Hearing the term non-viable pregnancy can be heartbreaking and confusing. Whether you’re early in your pregnancy or further along, understanding what this diagnosis means can help you prepare emotionally and medically for the next steps. Here’s a compassionate, clear overview.

What Is a Non-Viable Pregnancy?

A non-viable pregnancy is one where the fetus or embryo is no longer developing or cannot survive outside the womb. This can occur at any stage but is most often diagnosed in the first trimester.

Common Types of Non-Viable Pregnancies

• Blighted ovum – A fertilized egg implants in the uterus but doesn’t develop into an embryo.
• Missed miscarriage – The embryo stops growing, but there are no miscarriage symptoms.
• Molar pregnancy – An abnormal fertilized egg grows into a tumor-like mass.
• Embryonic or fetal demise – An embryo or fetus has stopped growing with no heartbeat.

Causes of Non-Viable Pregnancies

• Chromosomal abnormalities (most common)
• Uterine abnormalities
• Hormonal imbalances
• Maternal infections
• Lifestyle factors (rarely the cause, but may contribute)

Signs and Symptoms

• Lack of fetal heartbeat
• No growth in gestational sac
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Cramping or back pain
• Sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms (nausea, fatigue)

How It’s Diagnosed

A non-viable pregnancy is confirmed through:

• Ultrasound – No fetal heartbeat or growth
• Blood tests – Declining or abnormally low hCG levels

What Happens Next?

• Expectant management – Allowing the body to miscarry naturally
• Medical management – Medications to speed up the process
• Surgical management – Dilation and curettage (D&C) to remove tissue

Your doctor will recommend a path based on your health, preferences, and risks.

Emotional Support and Recovery

Experiencing a non-viable pregnancy is a form of pregnancy loss. It’s normal to grieve. Consider:

• Speaking with a therapist or counselor
• Joining a miscarriage or loss support group
• Taking time to rest and heal emotionally
• Talking with your partner about your shared grief and future plans

Future Fertility

Most women go on to have successful pregnancies after a non-viable one. If you’ve had two or more losses, a fertility workup may help uncover any underlying issues. At Surrogacy4All, we guide women through fertility evaluation and assist with options like IVF or surrogacy when needed.

Conclusion

A non-viable pregnancy can feel devastating, but you are not alone. Medical options and emotional support are available to help you move forward with hope and healing. Surrogacy4All is here to support individuals and couples navigating pregnancy loss and future fertility care.