Can a pregnancy test still detect pregnancy if the embryo has stopped developing?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on March 16, 2025
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After embryonic arrest, the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the body is still relatively high, and it does not immediately drop to normal. Therefore, if a pregnancy test is conducted at this time, it can still test positive. The diagnosis of embryonic arrest needs to be confirmed by an ultrasound examination, which checks the size of the fetus and whether there is a fetal heartbeat and fetal bud, and whether they correspond to the gestational age. If embryonic arrest is confirmed, it is necessary to actively proceed with an abortion, then identify and actively treat the causes of the embryonic arrest, in preparation for the next pregnancy attempt.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Will the embryo still grow if the embryo has stopped developing?

When embryonic arrest occurs, the embryo will no longer grow. There are many causes for embryonic arrest, such as congenital developmental defects of the gestational sac, abnormalities in the fertilized egg, congenital genetic diseases, and chromosomal abnormalities, all of which can easily lead to the cessation of embryonic development. At this time, regular observation of the embryonic tissue, which will no longer continue to grow and no fetal heartbeat is present, can confirm the condition of embryonic arrest. It is recommended to proceed with further treatment, such as medical abortion or surgical abortion. After the abortion, it is important to rest and enhance nutrition. It is also advised to have a thorough pregnancy check-up before the next pregnancy attempt to prevent recurrence of embryonic arrest.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Can an ultrasound detect an embryonic arrest?

Embryonic arrest refers to a condition in early pregnancy where no fetal heartbeat appears in the gestational sac. The diagnostic criteria mainly include the lack of observable primitive heart tube pulsation via ultrasound after two months of pregnancy, at which point embryonic arrest can be confirmed. The definitive diagnosis of embryonic arrest is primarily through ultrasound. The following situations observed during an ultrasound can lead to a diagnosis of embryonic arrest: 1. If the diameter of the gestational sac exceeds three centimeters without a clear fetal heartbeat or embryo visible inside, it can be diagnosed as embryonic arrest. 2. If an embryo is already present and approximately 10 days after the appearance of the embryo, an ultrasound still does not show a fetal heartbeat, this situation can also be determined as embryonic arrest.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How long to rest after a miscarriage and curettage?

After an embryo arrest, it is generally necessary to undergo a uterine cleaning procedure. At least half a month of rest is required after the cleaning because the procedure can cause considerable harm to a woman's body. The uterus needs time to recover, so it is best to rest at home for half a month after the uterine cleaning. During this period, it is important to rest, avoid overexertion, and not stay up late. Smoking and drinking are also discouraged. Intercourse should be avoided for a month, and it is crucial to keep the perineal area clean and observe any vaginal bleeding. Generally, bleeding may occur after the cleaning, but it usually does not last more than a week.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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What will happen if a miscarried embryo is not removed from the uterus?

After embryonic arrest occurs, it is necessary to handle it promptly, which involves expelling the embryo from the body. If the embryo remains for an extended period without timely intervention, it can easily lead to an infection in the uterine cavity, or even sepsis. The fetus may adhere to the uterine wall, making it difficult to clean later and can easily cause severe bleeding, seriously endangering the patient's life. Therefore, once we identify that an embryonic arrest has definitely occurred, it is crucial to undergo prompt uterine cleaning treatment. It is advisable to communicate with the hospital doctors and take appropriate measures.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Do you need to have an abortion if the embryo stops developing?

During prenatal check-ups, if it is indicated that the embryo has ceased to develop, it is necessary to treat the condition promptly. Normally, after the embryo has stopped developing, a detailed examination of the body is required to determine the current health status and to exclude potential complications such as coagulation dysfunction caused by the failed pregnancy. If everything is within the normal range, it is still recommended to promptly proceed with an abortion surgery to completely remove the embryo from the body to prevent long-term retention of embryonic tissue in the uterine cavity, which could lead to infections. After the abortion, it is also necessary to closely monitor the recovery of the uterine appendages and, if necessary, provide anti-inflammatory treatment as appropriate.