Analysis of the causes of missed abortion in the first trimester: clinical case

Abstract

Missed abortion is a form of spontaneous abortion where the embryo does not develop or loses viability, remaining in the uterine cavity without immediate signs of expulsion. Its etiology is multifactorial, involving genetic, immunological, endocrine, and environmental causes. The study aimed to analyze the possible causes of missed abortion in the first trimester of pregnancy through the evaluation of a clinical case and the review of scientific literature to contribute to the knowledge of its diagnosis and management. A case study was conducted with a descriptive and analytical approach, based on the clinical history of a 29-year-old patient diagnosed with missed abortion at 6 weeks of gestation. Clinical, laboratory, and ultrasound findings were analyzed, complemented by a literature review in scientific databases. The results showed the absence of an embryo and yolk sac in the obstetric ultrasound, suggesting a blighted ovum, mainly associated with aneuploidies. Other possible causes, such as infections, anatomical abnormalities, or exposure to harmful environmental factors, were ruled out. It is concluded that chromosomal abnormalities are the main cause of spontaneous abortion in the first trimester and that prevention is limited. However, timely diagnosis and adequate management reduce maternal complications and favor future pregnancies. The importance of prenatal care and reproductive health education is emphasized to improve the care of women of childbearing age.