The yolk sac is present but the embryo is not visible. Yolk sac and corpus luteum during pregnancy

Yolk sac- This is the germinal organ that contains a supply of nutrients for the embryo. The yolk sac persists throughout the first trimester and resolves on its own after 12 weeks. The shape and size of the yolk sac is one of the most important indicators of the course of pregnancy in its earliest stages.

Origin

The yolk sac is formed from a special structure - the endoblastic bladder - on the 15-16th day of embryo development (or on the 29-30th day from the last menstruation). During this period, a woman may not yet be aware of her changed status, and only a delay in menstruation indicates possible conception child. The yolk sac develops along with the fetal egg and other structures of the embryo according to a program set by nature. Any deviation from the genetically programmed rhythm can lead to termination of pregnancy.

The yolk sac is a closed ring located inside the chorionic cavity. It functions for a short time - only 12-14 weeks. At the beginning of the second trimester, the yolk sac begins to decrease in size. After 14 weeks, the formation disappears without a trace, having fulfilled all the functions assigned to it.

The role of the yolk sac

The yolk sac is a temporary (provisional) organ, but without it, the normal course of pregnancy and the development of the embryo are impossible. On early stages the size of the yolk sac exceeds the size of the embryo and amniotic cavity. The yolk sac actively grows from 6 to 12 weeks of gestation, after which it gradually decreases in size and completely disappears.

On the 18-19th day from conception, the yolk sac becomes the focus of hematopoiesis. In its walls, areas of erythropoiesis are formed, and the first red blood cells are formed. In the future, an extensive network of capillaries is formed here. Primary erythrocytes, leaving the yolk sac, enter the circulatory system of the embryo and are carried with the bloodstream throughout the body.

From the 28th day from the moment of conception, the yolk sac begins the production of the primary germ cells of the embryo. Subsequently, germ cells migrate from the yolk sac and enter the anlages of the gonads (sex glands). 4-5 weeks of pregnancy - milestone in the development of the reproductive system of the fetus. Any negative impacts during this period (infections, exposure, medicines) can disrupt the formation of the gonads of the embryo and cause infertility.

From the 2nd to the 6th week of pregnancy, the yolk sac acts as a liver for the embryo. Synthesized in the walls of the yolk sac important proteins and enzymes necessary for the normal development of the whole organism. In particular, AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) is produced here. In the circulatory system of the fetus, AFP binds to PUFAs (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and transports them to all cells and tissues. AFP also suppresses the immune response to newly synthesized proteins, allowing metabolic processes to take place in the right rhythm.

Other functions of the yolk sac:

  • regulation of the fetal immune system;
  • hormone synthesis;
  • creation of conditions for adequate metabolism;
  • excretion of metabolic products.

The yolk sac performs all its functions until the main internal organs and will not take on the job. After 12 weeks, the yolk sac is no longer needed. By the beginning of the second trimester, only a small cystic formation at the base of the umbilical cord remains from the yolk sac.

Yolk sac on ultrasound

In an ultrasound examination with a transvaginal probe, the yolk sac is determined from the 6th to the 12th week of pregnancy. Minor deviations (up to 2 weeks) in any direction are allowed. The absence of the yolk sac on ultrasound is an unfavorable sign indicating serious violations during pregnancy.

During an ultrasound, the doctor evaluates the location, shape and size of the yolk sac. The size of the yolk sac will depend on the gestational age.

Yolk sac norms by week:

Important to remember: the size of the yolk sac changes rapidly to early dates pregnancy. Minor deviations should not frighten a pregnant woman and cannot be the basis for making serious diagnoses. If the size of the yolk sac does not correspond to the norm, the doctor must carefully examine the embryo, determine the location of the fetal egg and other parameters. If necessary, a second ultrasound is performed after 1-2 weeks.

Timing for an ultrasound:

  • 6-7 weeks;
  • 12-14 weeks.

At a period of 6-7 weeks, the first ultrasound examination during pregnancy is performed. During the procedure, the doctor confirms the fact of pregnancy and determines its duration. The doctor indicates the location of the fetal egg (in the uterus or outside it), assesses the condition and localization of the yolk sac and chorion. The size of the fetus, their correspondence to the gestational age and the size of the yolk sac are determined. At 6 weeks, the heartbeat of the embryo is also heard and its viability is assessed.

For a period of 12-14 weeks, the first ultrasound screening. During the procedure, the doctor assesses the condition of the embryo, chorion and yolk sac. During this period, the yolk sac reaches its maximum dimensions. When ultrasound is performed at a later date, the yolk sac begins to dissolve and is not always visualized on the screen. After 14 weeks, the yolk sac is not normally detected.

Adverse symptoms:

  • absence of the yolk sac for up to 12 weeks;
  • thickening of the yolk sac more than 7 mm or a decrease of less than 2 mm;
  • change in the shape of the yolk sac.

In combination with other symptoms, these conditions may indicate high risk termination of pregnancy in the first trimester. To clarify the diagnosis, an additional examination on an expert class apparatus may be required.

Pathology of the yolk sac

When conducting an ultrasound, the doctor can identify such conditions:

The yolk sac is not visualized

Normally, the yolk sac is determined by ultrasound in the period from 6 to 12 weeks. The absence of a yolk sac is an unfavorable sign. If so important organ for some reason, it resolves ahead of time, the embryo ceases to receive the substances necessary for its development. The synthesis of hormones and enzymes is disrupted, the production of red blood cells stops. With premature reduction of the yolk sac (up to 12 weeks), spontaneous miscarriage occurs. Save the pregnancy medications fails.

The absence of a yolk sac on ultrasound (from 6 to 12 weeks) is considered one of the signs of a regressing pregnancy. The heartbeat of the embryo is not determined, its size does not correspond to the gestational age. Treatment is surgical only. With a regressing pregnancy, the fetal egg is removed and the uterine cavity is scraped.

Yolk sac less than normal

Possible options:

  • The yolk sac is defined as a rudimentary formation.
  • The size of the yolk sac does not correspond to the gestational age (less than normal).

Any of these situations suggests that premature resorption of the yolk sac has begun. If at the time of the reduction of the sac the internal organs of the fetus are not yet formed and are not able to fully function, the death of the embryo and spontaneous miscarriage occurs. In some cases, uterine contraction and miscarriage do not occur after the death of the embryo. This condition is called regressive pregnancy.

Yolk sac is larger than normal

The main reason for this symptom is wrong definition term of pregnancy. This is possible with an irregular menstrual cycle (against the background of various gynecological pathologies or in nursing mothers). In this situation, the doctor should estimate the size of the embryo and recalculate the gestational age, taking into account the available data.

An important point: a change in the size, shape or density of the yolk sac is important only in combination with other ultrasonic indicators. If any abnormalities are detected, the condition of the embryo (localization, size, heartbeat) should be assessed. If the baby grows and develops according to the gestational age, there is no cause for concern. Changes in the yolk sac this case considered individual feature that does not affect the course of the first trimester.

The development of the embryo during a woman's pregnancy proceeds in accordance with a certain scenario. Observation with the help of ultrasound diagnostics of certain primary organs, as well as their condition, makes it possible to diagnose certain pathologies at an early stage of a woman's pregnancy. Some pathologies may require abortion, it is better that this be done at a short gestational age. The state of some primary organs of the fetus allows you to predict the course of pregnancy and the likelihood spontaneous abortion in some cases, as well as conduct appropriate therapy. It is to such primary organs that the yolk sac, which appears at an early stage of development of the fetal egg, belongs.

Yolk sac. What it is?

Evolution went through a complex process, before a man appeared in his true likeness. A kind of mini-evolution can be observed during pregnancy. With the development of the human embryo, organs appear that are characteristic of less complex biological species, which implies a single evolution and only subsequent complication of the biological species.

The yolk sac is an organ that appears in the human embryo and provides nutrition and respiration to the fetal egg. A similar provisional organ also appears in embryos, bony and cartilaginous fish, cephalopods, birds, and all reptiles. The yolk sac develops at the earliest stage of embryonic development - on the 15th-16th day of the development of the fetal egg, by fouling the yolk of a fertilized egg with embryonic tissue - the endoderm and the visceral leaf of the lateral plates. In most animals, with the exception of some mammals, including humans, the yolk sac is retained as an outgrowth of the intestine with undissolved yolk.

Yolk sac during pregnancy

Until the 6th week of pregnancy, the yolk sac for a child plays the role of a primary liver and produces vital proteins: transferrins, alpha-fetoprotein, alpha2-microglobulin. From the 18-19th day of pregnancy in the walls of the yolk sac, with the help of nuclear erythrocytes, the primary circulatory system is formed - a capillary network that will nourish the fetus. From 28-29 days, the yolk sac is responsible for the production of primary germ cells, which then migrate to the embryo and contribute to the formation of an embryo of a certain sex.

The yolk sac has various functions that determine the viability of the fetus. It fully fulfills its role as a primary nutrient by the end of the 1st trimester, until the formation of the spleen, liver and reticuloendothelial system in the fetus (the system subsequently responsible for the development of macrophages - part of the immune system). The yolk sac after 12-13 weeks of pregnancy ceases its functions, is drawn into the cavity of the embryo, contracts and remains in the form of a cystic formation - the yolk stalk, near the base of the umbilical cord. With the pathological development of the yolk sac, the pregnancy may be non-developing, or a miscarriage will occur.

What does it mean if the yolk sac is not visualized

Observation of the yolk sac is usually performed during artificial insemination in order to analyze the process of fertilization, although the assessment of the yolk sac is an effective way to diagnose early pregnancy. There are different variants developmental pathology of the fetus. By the size of the yolk sac, one can judge how the pregnancy develops, with an insufficient size of the yolk sac, one can speak of a missed pregnancy, in which cleaning of the uterine cavity is recommended. It is important to do it on time. Although in this case there are effective ways hormone therapy.

In general, the yolk sac is visualized between 6 and 12 weeks of gestation. If during this period the yolk sac is not visualized, then there is a high probability of complications. Premature reduction (shrinkage) of the yolk sac would suggest an undeveloped pregnancy. The likelihood of complications during pregnancy increases dramatically if the size of the yolk sac is more than 5.5 mm (with a norm of max 6 mm) at 5-10 weeks and less than 2 mm at 8-12 weeks. In the second case, the risk is very high, non-developing pregnancy.

What does an enlarged or reduced yolk sac mean?

There is no need to panic if deviations from the norm are found, the results at 12-13 weeks will be decisive. There are cases of a normal pregnancy with a large yolk sac, significantly exceeding the norm. Everything is purely individual. In addition, you need to understand that the assessment of the yolk sac is a subjective factor, largely dependent on the quality of the ultrasound machine and the qualifications of the ultrasound diagnostician. But with a subjectively enlarged yolk sac, a triple test is usually ordered immediately to determine if there is cause for concern. Additional diagnostics are also indicated if the yolk sac slowly resolves after 12-13 weeks. Even with slow resorption, pregnancy can proceed without complications, but to remove all questions about the nature of the course of pregnancy and early development the fetus must pass a triple test and assess the possibility of genetic abnormalities (!) in the child. In the presence of genetic abnormalities is recommended.

Pathologies with underdevelopment of the yolk sac are mainly associated with a lack of progesterone in the body of a woman, usually to support normal course pregnancy is prescribed a progesterone-containing hormonal drug -. With the timely appointment of progesterone-based therapy, pregnancy, as a rule, proceeds normally. If you have shortened the second phase of the cycle or there is an estrogen-progesterone deficiency during the menstrual cycle, you need to pay special attention to the nature of the development early pregnancy and take every action to avoid a miscarriage that will require cleaning.

A lack of progesterone can be in women with a shortened menstrual cycle of 21 days, with the second phase of the cycle less than 10 days, with a chaotic basal temperature schedule. The state of the hormonal background can be independently assessed before the onset of pregnancy by measuring basal body temperature. Estrogen-progesterone deficiency will cause a chaotic basal temperature measurement schedule.

) ultrasound examination is carried out in order to establish the localization (location) of the fetal egg. A fertilized egg is a round or ovoid (egg-like) formation that surrounds the embryo, usually located in the upper half of the uterine cavity. On ultrasound, the fetal egg looks like a small dark gray (almost black) spot with clear contours.

The presence of a fetal egg in the uterine cavity eliminates the possibility ectopic pregnancy. In a multiple pregnancy, two separate fetal eggs can be seen.

At what time can you see a fertilized egg.

Approximately two and a half weeks after conception with a delay in menstruation of 3-5 days or more, that is, on the fourth - fifth obstetric week pregnancy from last day the last menstruation, an ultrasound diagnostician can already see a fetal egg in the uterine cavity using transvaginal ultrasound. Diagnostic hCG level in the blood serum, at which a fetal egg should be visible in the uterine cavity with transvaginal ultrasound, it is from 1000 to 2000 IU.

The fetal egg looks like a rounded black (anechoic or echo-negative, that is, not reflecting ultrasonic waves) formation, the diameter of which is very small and ranges from 2-3 mm. The embryo and extra-embryonic organs still have a microscopic structure and therefore are not yet visible with ultrasound. Using a parameter like mean internal diameter of the ovum it is most advisable in the first 3-5 weeks of pregnancy from conception, when the embryo is not yet visible or is difficult to detect. The measurement error usually does not exceed 6 days.

Fertilized egg: size by week

The size of the fetal egg by week is a very important indicator during pregnancy. For example, a fetal egg diameter of 3 mm corresponds to a gestational age of 4 weeks, and a fetal egg diameter of 6 mm corresponds to 5 weeks of gestation. An increase in the average diameter of the fetal egg occurs in the early stages of pregnancy at a rate of approximately 1 millimeter per day.

Most of the standard indicators of the average internal diameter of the fetal egg are limited to a period of 8-10 weeks. This is due to the fact that after 6-7 weeks of pregnancy, the size of the fetal egg cannot reflect the growth of the embryo. With its appearance, to assess the duration of pregnancy, it is used coccygeal-parietal size embryo (KTP).

The dimensions of the average inner diameter of the fetal egg by week are given in the calculator.

Irregularly shaped fertilized egg (deformed fertilized egg)

If the fetal egg is located in the uterine cavity, then such a pregnancy is called physiological. uterine pregnancy. A fetal egg up to 5-6 weeks is normal on ultrasound and has a round or drop-shaped shape, surrounded by a thin shell. By 6-7 weeks, it completely fills the uterine cavity and becomes oval in the longitudinal scan, and in the transverse scan - round shape. If on ultrasound the doctor sees a deformation of the fetal egg (it is elongated, flattened from the sides, like a bean), then this may testify to the tone of the uterus. A change in the shape of the fetal egg is possible with partial detachment. A significant deformation with fuzzy contours is observed with a frozen pregnancy.

Timely diagnosis of deformation of the fetal egg during pregnancy makes it possible to save the child.

Empty fertilized egg

Normally, a fetal egg in the uterine cavity is visible with transvaginal ultrasound approximately 32-36 days after the first day of the last menstruation. important place assigned yolk sac, which has great importance in the development of the ovum. In the physiological course of pregnancy, the yolk sac has a rounded shape, the liquid content reaches its maximum size by 7–8 weeks of pregnancy.

The embryo looks like a thickening along the edge of the yolk sac. The image of a normal embryo with a yolk sac looks like a "double bubble". By seven weeks, the yolk sac is 4-5 mm in size. The relationship between the size of the yolk sac and the outcome of pregnancy has been established. With a yolk sac diameter of less than 2 mm and more than 5.6 mm, spontaneous miscarriage or non-developing pregnancy is quite often observed at 5–10 weeks.

The absence of a yolk sac with an average internal diameter of the fetal egg of at least 10 mm is an unfavorable ultrasound criterion in case of a threatened miscarriage.

An empty (false) fetal egg is an accumulation of fluid, usually irregular in shape, located near the border of the endometrium.

Sometimes there are cases when the fetal egg has the usual shape and size, but there is no yolk sac or the embryo itself inside it. The chorion of an empty ovum produces hCG hormone, as in a normal physiological pregnancy, so pregnancy tests will be positive. Ultrasound, which is performed in early pregnancy, can be erroneous, since the earlier it is done, the less likely it is to see the embryo. Up to 7 weeks of pregnancy, a re-examination is required to clarify the diagnosis.

When on ultrasound they see a fetal egg in the uterine cavity, but do not see the embryo itself, doctors call this pathology anembryony (no embryo).

Non-developing pregnancy (death of the embryo) is evidenced by the following signs: altered fetal membranes, the absence of an embryo with a fetal egg size of more than 16 mm in diameter or the absence of a yolk sac with a membrane size of more than 8 mm (during transabdominal ultrasound: 25 mm - without an embryo and 20 mm - without a yolk sac); uneven contours, low position or absence of a double decidual sac.

In the early stages, the cause of pregnancy fading is most often chromosomal abnormalities that arose during the process of fertilization.

What is SVD during pregnancy and how to determine it on ultrasound? There is only one answer to this question.

SVD is the average internal diameter of the fetal egg according to ultrasound diagnostics. This indicator is measured exclusively in millimeters.

gestational sac illustration

The gestational age is characterized by certain values ​​of the inner diameter. The digital value of SVD is constantly changing, so the period is considered with an error of from a week to one and a half. More reliable sign are indicators of KTR (coccygeal-parietal size). It should be noted that the coccygeal-parietal size of the embryo is less subject to individual fluctuations compared to the average inner diameter of the fetal egg, and therefore is used more often to establish a reliable gestation period. The error is about three days.

When the fetus is well visualized, the term is determined by the length of the fetus, and not by the internal diameter. The coccygeal-parietal size is fixed during a planned ultrasound and reflects the real size of the fetus in combination with an approximate weight indicator fetus. As a rule, the measurement of CTE indicators is used before, and in later ultrasound studies, the biparietal diameter of the circumference of the head and abdomen of the fetus is used.

Approximate indicators of SVD, depending on the timing of gestation

  • When the indicators of the diameter of the fetal egg are approximately 4 millimeters, then the gestational age is. It is possible to assume that about four weeks have passed since the day of conception.
  • Closer to the fifth week, the diameter will reach 6 millimeters.
  • A few days later, the fetus becomes 7 millimeters.
  • diameter increases to 12 - 18 millimeters.
  • The average value of SVD for a period of six weeks and five days is 16 millimeters.

fertilized egg on ultrasound

Of course, the expectant mother worries next question: how intensively does the fetus grow in the second and third trimester? We can say with confidence that up to its diameter grows by one millimeter every day. Then its value increases by an average of 2 - 2.5 millimeters every day. In the border period of 16-17 weeks, they stop measuring the inner diameter of the fetal egg, focusing on more reliable indicators.

Ultrasound examination at a short gestation period

Diagnostics is carried out for the following purposes:

Diagnosis of the localization of the fetal egg

1. Establishing the exact localization of the fetus (in the uterine cavity or outside it). When the fetus is located outside the uterus, we are talking about. When the fetus cannot be visualized or the recognition process is significantly more difficult, then they resort to an accurate determination of the heartbeat of the embryo. Signs of fetal viability may be found in the fallopian tubes or abdominal cavity.

In addition to this complication, other complications may appear at the initial stages of pregnancy: for example, an altered shape of the fetal egg; improper attachment; high risk of placental abruption and other pathological disorders.

2. Definition of one or multiple pregnancy is not difficult. In the uterine cavity there are two or more fetuses with active vital activity.

3. Evaluation of the main dimensions of the fetal egg and embryo and comparing them with normal indicators.

4. The study of the correct structure of the embryo and fetal egg to exclude serious congenital anomalies development. These can be chromosomal mutations (for example, Down syndrome).

5. Assessment of vital signs is carried out on the basis of the presence of a heartbeat, which is detected as early as the fifth week of gestation. The motor activity of the embryo is quite well determined already after the seventh week of gestation.

On initial stage the movements are so weak and isolated that they can hardly be distinguished during ultrasound. As the embryo grows, motor activity begins to resemble characteristic flexion and extension movements, and then active movements upper and lower limbs. Since individual moments motor activity are rather short in time and are calculated in seconds or their fractions, then the definition of cardiac activity is used to register the fact of the fetal life.

6. . This small cystic formation provides the body of the expectant mother with important hormones to maintain the fetus in the early stages of development.

7. The study of amnion and chorion is reduced to their ratio depending on the gestation period already in the first trimester. Based on the results of ultrasound, it is possible to predict the further course and outcome of pregnancy.

Ultrasound is indispensable for determining possible problems with pregnancy

8. Diagnostics threatened miscarriage through ultrasound, it allows you to recognize early symptoms, which are characterized by a clear thickening of one of the walls of the uterine cavity, as well as a significant increase internal os. By ultrasound at possible miscarriage evaluate the vital signs of the fetus and the condition of the uterus and placenta as a whole.

9. Diagnosis of diseases and possible malformations of the female genital area (malformations of the vagina or uterus). Any deviation from the norm determines the course and outcome of pregnancy.

Typical signs and features of implantation of the fetal egg

Often, the fetal egg is attached to the wall of the uterus after several days after unprotected intercourse, and then the egg is introduced after fertilization into the endometrial layer. From this moment, the hormone hCG begins to be actively produced in the woman's body ( chorionic gonadotropin), to which the pregnancy test strip reacts.

Implantation of the ovum

Not always a screening test will be positive, so it is necessary to resort to a reliable blood test to determine hCG. After receiving a positive test result, it is necessary to as soon as possible contact a gynecologist at a antenatal clinic for registration and further observation for nine months.

The formed ovum is the most sure sign onset pregnancy. It has a characteristic oval shape and is quite well visualized on ultrasound in the third week of the absence of menstruation.

The embryo itself can be seen only when the period reaches the fifth week. If the ultrasound doctor does not detect the embryo in the fetal egg, then the study is repeated after about half a month. As a rule, the embryo becomes more clearly visible, and its heartbeat is also determined. In other cases we are talking about pathological development, or even about a frozen and non-developing pregnancy.

That is why it is very important to undergo an ultrasound scan to exclude possible complications in order to further correct the situation. The first trimester is the most important period gestation, since throughout its entire length there is an active laying of all organs and systems of the unborn baby.

Scheduled ultrasound diagnostics

Based on WHO results, strict periods for mandatory ultrasound examinations during the gestation period of the unborn baby.

Three ultrasound screenings are required

At other time intervals, the behavior of the examination is prescribed strictly according to individual indications from the mother and fetus:

  • recommended at 12 - 14 weeks;
  • at 20 - 24 weeks;
  • necessary at 32 - 34 weeks of gestation.

It is undesirable to neglect the term of the next examination, since it is during the indicated period of gestation that it is possible to recognize malformations of the fetus. And if there is a compelled need - interruption for medical reasons. The last screening examination may be carried out at a later time.

The results of the current diagnosis can be significantly out of the normal range, but this is far from a cause for concern. Do not forget that the development of each child has its own characteristics. However, the identified symptoms should not be ignored either.

Ultrasound during pregnancy has long become an understandable and familiar procedure, because it is the simplest, most reliable and informative method for monitoring the condition of the fetus. As a rule, a specialist diagnostician during the study determines the duration of pregnancy, and almost every patient takes this for granted, without thinking - how exactly does the doctor determine the timing? And how accurate? What parameters does it use for this?

It is diagnostics using ultrasound that helps doctors to reliably determine the timing of bearing a child based on indicators of a very different nature, but at the same time directly established for a more informative result.

Setting an exact due date also helps to predict the due date, which is very important both with medical point vision, and just to calm the expectant mother. Know as much as possible exact date it is also necessary in order to control the development of the fetus, its condition, the correlation of norms with reality.

How does the specialist determine the timing?

Some patients believe that it is enough for the doctor to look at the image on the monitor - and the "age" of the child immediately becomes visually clear, but this, of course, is not so. The specialist fixes the obtained data of the embryo and compares it with the variants of the norm. Usually, to help the doctor, there is a special table with fixed indicators, where all the relevant norms are listed by week.

Quantitative indicators.

Table No. 1. Norms of indicators at 5-10 weeks of pregnancy.

Table number 2. Norms of indicators for the second trimester.

11 17-21 10-16 52-73
12 22-24 17-21 58-83
13 25-27 23-28 73-95
14 28-30 27-31 84-110
15 31-33 32-39 110
16 34-37 41-49 111-135
17 38-41 45-54 122-149
18 42-47 48-59 131-160
19 48-49 52-63 142-174
20 50-53 56-67 154-186
21 54-56 61-72 167-200
22 57-60 65-76 178-211
23 61-64 68-80 190-223
24 65-67 71-85 201-236

Table number 3. Norms of indicators for the third trimester.

Gestational age (in weeks) BDP (biparietal size) (in millimeters) Fronto-occipital size (in millimeters) Head circumference (in millimeters)
25 68-70 73-88 215-250
26 71-73 76-93 224-261
27 75-76 80-96 235-273
28 77-79 83-98 245-284
29 80-82 86-101 255-295
30 83-85 89-104 265-304
31 86-87 93-108 273-314
32 88-89 95-112 283-325
33 90-91 98-116 289-332
34 92-93 101-119 295-338
35 94-95 105-120 299-345
36 96-97 104-123 303-348
37 98-98 106-126 307-352
38 99-100 108-128 309-357
39 101-102 109-129 311-359
40 103 110-120 312-361

Table No. 4. Standards for the length of the fetus.

Gestational age (in weeks) Embryo dimensions (in centimeters)
5 0,8
6 1,1
7 1,3
8 1,5
9 2,2
10 3,2
11 4,1
12 5,3
13 7,5
14 8,7
15 10
16 11,5
17 13,1
18 14,2
19 15,2
20 16,5
21 26,6
22 27,8
23 29,8
24 31
25 34,6
26 35,5
27 36,5
28 37,7
29 38,6
30 39,8
31 41,1
32 42,5
33 43,6
34 45
35 46,1
36 47,3
37 48,6
38 49,8
39 50,6
40 51,7
41 52
42 53

Table No. 5. Standards for the circumference of the abdomen of the embryo.

Gestational age (in weeks) Abdominal circumference (in millimeters)
11 40-61
12 50-71
13 58-79
14 66-91
15 91
16 88-115
17 93-130
18 105-144
19 114-154
20 125-163
21 137-177
22 148-190
23 160-201
24 173-223
25 183-228
26 194-240
27 206-253
28 217-264
29 228-277
30 238-290
31 247-300
32 258-314
33 267-334
34 276-336
35 285-344
36 292-353
37 300-360
38 304-368
39 310-375
40 313-380

Table No. 6. Norms for the thickness of the placenta.

Gestational age (in weeks) Optimal placental thickness (in millimeters)
20 22-23
21 22,8-23,5
22 23,6-24,4
23 24,5-26
24 25,3-25,8
25 26,2-26,7
26 27-27,5
27 27,9-28,3
28 28,7-29
29 29,6-30
30 30,4-30,7
31 31,3-31,8
32 32,1-32,5
33 33-33,4
34 33,9-34,3
35 34,7-35
36 35,6-36
37 34,3-34,7
38 34,1-34,5
39 33,8-34
40 33,5-33,7

What exactly is the specialist analyzing?

The analyzed indicators of the norm depend on the trimester and specific date.

In the first trimester, special attention is paid to the length of the fetus, since this is the only parameter that provides reliable information. During this period, there are no decisive differences in the development of embryos in different women, so ultrasound establishes the “age” of the child to the nearest day.


The second and third trimesters are periods during which it is impossible to achieve absolute accuracy, because from this moment the embryos begin to develop individually. Doctors use average figures, but even in this case, the period is set as reliably as possible, and it is very possible to identify possible pathologies. At the same time, specialists analyze such indicators as the circumference of the child's head, chest diameter, coccygeal-parietal distance of the embryo.

Now it is necessary to analyze in more detail the meaning of the indicators presented in these tables, which may raise questions from patients.

Coccyx-parietal distance - the distance, respectively, from the crown of the embryo to the coccyx. Thanks to this indicator, the most accurate determination of the term is possible, because these sizes are universal. Also, if there are factors preventing the setting of deadlines, KTR is the only reliable parameter in this case.

The diameter of the fetal egg is the directly fertilized egg from which the embryo will develop in the future. Its dimensions, of course, directly depend on the specific period and have long been studied - it is enough for the doctor to look at the corresponding table.

The diameter of the yolk sac is also an important indicator b, since the yolk sac throughout the development of the child plays a very important role(for example, in the first trimester it supplies the circulatory system of the embryo with nuclear red blood cells). The dimensions are also always in the doctor's table.

Biparietal size- the distance between the parietal bones of the embryo.

Fronto-occipital size- the distance between the frontal and occipital bones, respectively.

Embryo length- is calculated when the child is in the most "unbent" state.

Placenta thickness- a lot depends on the placenta: it protects the child, and supplies him with everything he needs, and produces many hormones. Therefore, it is very important to check for compliance with its thickness to the standards laid down by the deadline. If the mother's condition is stable, there are no deviations - it is enough to simply establish the "age" of the embryo by the thickness of the placenta.

Accuracy

Many women are interested in how accurately ultrasound of the fetus helps to determine the timing by week? Therefore, it is important to note that ultrasound diagnostics establishes obstetric terms, in other words, the "age" of the embryo is calculated from the first day of the last menstruation. Sometimes a situation arises when a patient, referring to tables on the Internet and ultrasound results, finds differences in the term, so you need to know exactly which system was used to calculate, and not “sin” for imperfection ultrasound diagnostics.

Pathologies

Ultrasound of the fetus is informative not only as an aid to determine the term, but also in the detection of pathologies different nature. Moreover, some of them can only be detected using ultrasound, it is also important to note that, since ultrasound can be done as often as you like, this is enough effective method control of the fetus.

So, the main pathologies that can be determined are:

  1. Developmental delay (detected by comparing normative parameters with reality, indicators below the threshold undoubtedly indicate the presence of an anomaly).
  2. Various defects (also found when indicators do not match).
  3. Low water.
  4. Polyhydramnios.
  5. Thickening of the placenta.
  6. Non-developing pregnancy (indicators below the standards (especially the coccyx-parietal size) in the first trimester).

When can I go to the diagnostic room?

Of course, modern ultrasound technologies make it possible to detect an embryo as early as a week after conception, but most clinics still do not have such perfect equipment. It is also important to note that this will require transvaginal ultrasound, which is very dangerous for the unborn child and can cause spontaneous miscarriage. So early examination can be done only if there are special medical indications, in any other case, you can tolerate with knowledge of the exact date.

It is advised to contact the diagnostician at the 5th week of pregnancy, when it will already be possible to examine the fetus in more detail using ultrasound, draw certain conclusions and maximum precision set a deadline.

Is it dangerous?

Some patients refuse ultrasound diagnostics by both transvaginal and transabdominal methods, referring to the danger of ultrasound. Indeed, these fears are logical, because taking care of the health of the baby is characteristic of any mother. But ultrasound is absolutely not dangerous for the embryo, even at a short time there is no reason to believe that ultrasonic waves will damage the development of the child, cause pathologies or cause miscarriage.

Error Probability

Any woman can quite rightly consider that the size of the embryo is not the most reliable indicator for setting the term, because each child develops differently and it is difficult to determine its exact age. But in fact, over the years of medical practice, there can no longer be any doubt about the correctness of the period established on the ultrasound of the fetus.

If a woman still questions the results of an ultrasound scan, you can always carry out a number of additional diagnostic procedures, which in turn will allow you to determine the timing at the most accurate level.

Fetal ultrasound is not only a method of monitoring the condition of the fetus, monitoring its development, but also a completely reliable, accurate, informative, convenient and simple way to determine the period by week. According to many parameters that have already been quite thoroughly studied over the years of the development of ultrasound medicine, the diagnostician quickly determines the obstetric “age” of the embryo using special tables that a simple patient can rely on.

The yolk sac is the earliest visible part fertilized egg. If it is visible on ultrasound, then this confirms the proper placement of the embryo. This is evidence that the egg has successfully implanted into the wall of the uterus, and developing embryo took root in the womb, as it should be. So, the yolk sac: the norm for weeks.

The gestational sac and its role in the development of the embryo

The yolk sac is a membranous membrane attached to the embryo on its ventral part. This formation provides early nutrition to the fetus. The gestational sac functions as a developmental of cardio-vascular system human embryo before the start of internal circulation.

The fertilized egg is the only structure available that can be used to determine the existence intrauterine pregnancy until the embryo can be identified. The yolk sac during pregnancy, if it develops normally, is visible in the early stages with the help of ultrasound. The gestational sac determined at week 5 is a critical landmark in early pregnancy monitoring.

The normal functioning of the yolk sac is important at the beginning of the embryonic circulation. Transportation of blood to the walls of the sac occurs through the primitive aorta. Its circulation passes through a wide network of capillaries and returns through the yolk vein to the tubular heart of the embryo. Through this circulation, nutrients are absorbed from the yolk and carried to the embryo.

The first bleeding occurred at 6.6 weeks. The hospital revealed a hematoma twice the size of the fetal egg. After that, there was practically no discharge, and with a slightly reduced hematoma, I was sent home. Two weeks later I end up in the hospital again with bleeding and an emptied hematoma, which fell out directly (sorry) into my swimming trunks. It's been almost 9 weeks now. After lying down for another 10 days, I am discharged myself, going to a screening, where they show us our baby, and the absence of a hematoma. The next morning, bleeding again! (((again to the hospital, they could not stop the blood for about 5 days, after they stopped, a new hematoma was detected on ultrasound. After 2 weeks, they are discharged with a very reduced hematoma. New Year's Eve bleeding again.As a result, the bleeding stopped on the 3rd day, no one did an ultrasound on the holidays.Today, according to the ultrasound, 16 weeks and two hematomas, each about 40 by 10.Despite all these bleedings, my baby is developing, the pharynx is closed.I take duphaston, they inject papaverine, I put candles in the morning and in the evening, I take foliber and tranexam. this moment go brown discharge. On the gasket (sorry) porridge.

Very worried. Pregnancy I save with all my might, my husband and I really dream about a baby.

Hello. I can support you, and I understand you perfectly, I went through it. I want to wish you to give birth healthy baby on time. I had the same symptoms, I also suffered from bleeding, only in place of duphaston I inserted suppositories of morning, 6 weeks of pregnancy and up to 32 weeks, Ultrasound everything was fine, screening at 12 weeks showed some changes, she didn’t go to genetics, at 23 weeks ultrasound again and no pathology was found, and brown discharge was still bothering. When I was in storage in the hospital, I got with spotting bloody, and there blood gushed straight in the hospital, the doctor on duty looked at me and said to clean, I refused, I emphasize I refused, it was a day off, after the weekend my attending physician sent me for ultrasound, they checked palpitations, the baby's heart was beating, the development of the embryo was excellent, and the doctor answered about the bleeding - THIS DOES NOT INTERFERE THE BABY. Thanks to the nurse who was on duty, she advised me to do the IV tronex in the system, and the bleeding stopped. But with brown smearing discharges, they were discharged. After 12 weeks, all discharge stopped. Doctors attributed a lot of things but took folic acid, she canceled vit E herself, because I always drank it before pregnancy, vitamins for pregnant women + peace, rest, no physical activity, no weights, only positive emotions, and no intimacy, well, kisses it's necessary). And pray to God, He will see that you want this miracle, fight with all your might, and he will definitely give you a gift. I want to tell you I gave birth at 43 weeks to a healthy, lovely daughter, she is smart beyond her years. We will be exactly 1 year old on January 22. At 9 months she began to walk on her own, at 2 months she turned over on her tummy, at 3 months both on her tummy and from her tummy, at 5 months she began to crawl, she began to hold her head at 1.5 months. She is the 3rd child in our family, I have 3 daughters. So, trust doctors less, rely more on yourself and believe, only according to your faith, God will definitely help you. God bless you!

The conception of a child and its subsequent development in the womb is a series of complex stages of formation, interconnected by an indivisible and integral chain of processes. In early pregnancy, the most important link in this chain is the yolk sac, also known as the yolk sac. It should not be confused with the corpus luteum of the ovary, because these are two completely different organs of the same system.

Physiology of processes

To begin with, it is important to define the difference between the yolk sac and the corpus luteum. Both organs appear for a short time, participate in different processes of the development of pregnancy and are an integral part of it.

Yolk sac

It is a temporary extraembryonic organ. It should appear on the 15-16th day after conception during the placentation period, by the formation of embryonic tissue around the yolk of a fertilized egg. It is located on the ventral side of the embryo between the amnion and the chorion, and is a semicircular formation with thin walls. In the body of a pregnant woman, the period of active functioning of the bag is limited to the first trimester. Starting from 6 weeks, it is clearly visible on ultrasound.

At 6-10 weeks of pregnancy, the diameter of the pouch should not exceed 5.5 mm. For a period of 8-12 weeks, it should not be more than 2 mm. Starting from 12–13 weeks, the bladder can no longer be identified using ultrasound.

corpus luteum

This is a temporary organ of the ovary, which begins its formation after the release of a mature egg from the dominant follicle, that is, after ovulation. It develops from the granulosa cells of the ovulated ovarian follicle throughout the luteal phase, under the action of luteinizing hormone.

If conception has occurred, then the corpus luteum actively develops under the influence of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The corpus luteum functions for 10–12 weeks after fertilization and is the main source of the pregnancy hormone, progesterone. It is he who is responsible for maintaining and maintaining pregnancy in its first stages. Progesterone inhibits the development of new eggs, the growth of the lining layer of the endometrium and, accordingly, stops menstruation. The corpus luteum fulfills its intended purpose until the placenta is completely formed and cannot independently produce the necessary hormones.

Purpose of the yolk sac

The yolk sac plays an important role in the formation of the embryo, especially on early stages its development. It performs a number of fundamental functions, without which further successful pregnancy will be impossible:

  1. Performs the function of the liver and synthesizes important proteins: alpha 2-microglobulin, alpha-fetoprotein, transferrins, etc.
  2. Transports the first germ cells to the embryo, as a result of which its gender is decided.
  3. Forms the immunity of the fetus, acting as a macrophage system (reticuloendothelial system).
  4. Forms in its walls the first erythrocytes and a network of tiny capillaries, from which the circulatory system will be formed, feeding the embryo with all the necessary microelements.

After the 12th week of pregnancy, the bubble stops functioning, gradually shrinks and decreases in size. On the body of the embryo, it remains in the form of a cystic formation near the umbilical cord.

Possible pathologies

When conducting an ultrasound, doctors first of all pay attention to the shape and size of the yolk sac. If the examination revealed an irregular shape and size of the sac, then this may indicate the presence of various pathologies and even genetic abnormalities.

Imaging disorders

Normally, the yolk sac is visualized from 6 to 13 weeks. There are rare cases when this temporary organ is not displayed on the screen of the ultrasound machine in due time or, conversely, is visualized when it should not. There may be several reasons for this:

  • If the gestational age is short (less than 6 weeks), then the yolk sac may not appear on the screen of the ultrasound machine. Normally, this organ is not visible until 6 weeks, but the fetal egg and its heartbeat (week 5) are already there. It is this fact that can confuse the doctor and the pregnant woman.
  • If the bubble is not visualized from the 6th to the 12th week of pregnancy, then there is a chance that the pregnancy will end with a miscarriage or fetal fading. Ultrasonography must be done again to exclude the technical error of the previous ultrasound or to confirm the pathology.
  • Visualization of the bag after 12 weeks - bad sign. By this time, the yolk sac should begin to reduce, and within 13 weeks it will completely disappear and give way to an already formed placenta. If this organ continues to exist and does not decrease, then there is a high probability of a threat and miscarriage.
  • Premature reduction of the bag (up to 12 weeks). This symptom is unfavorable and also indicates a violation of the course of pregnancy, which may end in a breakdown.
  • The yolk sac is present, but the embryo is not. A similar situation occurs during a missed pregnancy, when the embryo is not laid or dies at an early stage, and the fetal egg remains empty. In medicine, this case is called anembryony. The yolk sac may appear during anembryony, but the embryo itself does not.

Size Mismatch

This pathology consists in an increased or reduced size of the yolk sac. The problem is considered dangerous for pregnancy, but at the same time it is subjective sign which must be monitored by a physician. IN similar cases first, a triple test is performed to confirm or refute the presence of anomalies. triple test- study of markers of malformations and genetic disorders of the fetus: human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), free estriol (E3) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Diagnostics is also prescribed for sluggish reduction of the yolk sac after 12 weeks. At serious pathologies and anomalies of embryonic development, extreme measures are prescribed to solve the problem - abortion.

The problem of reduced size is usually associated with a lack of the hormone progesterone. In this case, the pregnant woman is prescribed drugs containing progesterone, for example, Urozhestan, Duphaston, Crinon, etc.

Summing up, it is worth noting once again that if there is a pregnancy, then during an ultrasound scan immediately after the delay, the corpus luteum of the ovary will be clearly visible, and from the 6th week the yolk sac will also begin to be visualized. Non-compliance with the norms at the initial stage of pregnancy can cause serious complications in the development of the fetus, so every pregnant woman needs to carefully monitor her health from the very beginning to the happy end of pregnancy.

Two cherished strips on the test, high level HCG - here they are cherished desires women who committed a long way to pregnancy. Some may have had to resort to ART. It would seem that now you can only enjoy your status for 9 months and prepare for the arrival of a new family member. But, not everything is so rosy. In recent years, the tendency has been increasing that during the first ultrasound, a fetal egg without an embryo is detected in early pregnancy.

General structure of the intrauterine organism

After natural conception or in vitro fertilization and subsequent transplantation into the uterus, the embryo begins to attach to the endometrium - implantation occurs. In the process of complex reactions in the embryo, cell division continues, their differentiation begins. On one part, the organs of the unborn child will be formed, and on the other, extra-embryonic organs will be formed - amnion, chorion, allantois, yolk sac, placenta.

All these organs are called provisional, as they inherently provide the embryo with the necessary nutrients, serve as precursors to the future elements of the child, protect the fetus from any negative factors. Thus, the fetal egg, or as it is also called fetal sac- this is the embryo, membranes, yolk sac, other formed bodies and amniotic fluid taken together.

How is a fertilized egg different from an embryo? As described above, the embryo is an integral part of the fetal egg. In simple words, the embryo is literally in the sac, ovoid, oval shape from which it feeds. Thanks to him, the embryo can develop and remain unharmed.

What is the yellow sac in the ovum? Still, it’s more correct to say not yellow, but the yolk sac (sac) - this is a special and very important temporary organ of the unborn child. It is a process on the ventral side of the embryo containing the yolk. In the early stages of pregnancy, it performs the functions of the liver, produces germ cells for the fetus, is actively involved in metabolic processes and further reduced by the end of the first trimester.

Definition of the concept of Anembryony

Unfortunately, at a certain stage, the embryo itself may stop developing, while the fetal egg will be present. At the same time, all signs of pregnancy persist or increase in a woman - toxicosis, swelling of the mammary glands, lack of menstruation, mood changes, even a pregnancy test continues to show two strips.

or lack of an embryo photo:

This is a consequence of the fact that such sensations are directly dependent on hormones produced by the membranes of the fetus, other organs or administered orally, for example, if in vitro fertilization was performed. This picture can be kept certain time, a woman may not feel the absence of an embryo and no signs that fatal and irreversible changes have occurred inside her.

This pathology is determined at the first ultrasound, at 5-6 weeks of pregnancy. If there is no embryo in the fetal egg on the monitor of the ultrasound examination apparatus, then the doctor makes the diagnosis of anembryony. In some cases, it is recommended to undergo a second study at 7-8 weeks or to track the dynamics of hCG. A double-confirmed fetus without an embryo is a reason for terminating the pregnancy.

It is not uncommon for such a phenomenon as anembryony of the second fetal egg. This means that the woman could have twins. The remaining embryo, the one that has frozen, does not have a detrimental effect, provided that the second one has no pathologies.

Causes of anembryony

An amniotic egg without an embryo or a fetal egg, as anembryony is also called, is still not a fully understood topic. The causes of an empty fetal egg without an embryo are varied, and sometimes it is very difficult for a doctor to establish a real picture of such a situation.

The main culprits why there is a fetal egg, but there is no embryo:

  • most often these are genetic or chromosomal disorders of the embryo, an abnormally formed embryo will not survive, according to the law of natural selection;
  • transferred acute infectious diseases in the first weeks of pregnancy, which directly affected the embryo;
  • radioactive or x-ray exposure;
  • the negative impact of alcohol, nicotine, drugs;
  • hormonal disorders of a woman that directly affect the development of the fetus.

An egg in the uterus without an embryo, although fertilized, is a clear sign that the pregnancy has stopped. But, in order to make such a diagnosis and, accordingly, prescribe further treatment it is necessary to make sure that the calculation of the gestational age is correct.

A common reason why an ultrasound does not see a fetal egg is precisely that the study is carried out too early, at a time at which it is virtually impossible to notice the embryo.

The answer to the question of whether the embryo can hide is not unambiguous. With sufficient experience of the specialist and good sensitivity of the ultrasound machine, the likelihood that for some reason the embryo was not noticed is small. For reinsurance, you can independently try to do a second ultrasound with another doctor, possibly in a paid office, after waiting a week or two.

Average Growth Rates and Forecasts

In the absence of pathologies, the size of a normal fetal egg gradually increases. So, on average, at week 4, you can visualize the PU up to 5 mm, after 5 weeks, the size is 6-7 mm. A significant increase occurs at 6-7 weeks, the size of the PU reaches from 11 mm to 16-17 mm, and already after 8 weeks, a normally fetal egg is clearly visualized and its diameter is 18-22 mm.

It is generally accepted that if by the period of 8-9 weeks the fetal egg grows, and the embryo is not visible, then the pregnancy will not end successfully. Until then, it is too early to make serious predictions. It is not correct to focus solely on the growth of the PJ. Since the fetal egg during anembryony grows for a certain time.

Does a fertilized egg grow during a frozen pregnancy? In early pregnancy, with anembryony, the embryo grows by 1-2 mm and stops developing. This size is almost impossible to determine using ultrasound, even the widest resolution. And the PU itself can increase due to the fact that fluid continues to accumulate in it. Therefore, the answer to the question of whether a fetal egg can grow without an embryo is positive.

In a situation where the ultrasound shows that the yolk sac is an embryo, there is no more favorable prognosis. Perhaps the gestational age does not allow visualization of the embryo itself. Normally, the yolk sac is visible on ultrasound in the period from 6 to 11 weeks of pregnancy. Regarding whether there can be a yolk sac without an embryo, the answer depends on what is understood, there is no embryo under the phrase. If it is not visible, if it does not develop at the moment when the yolk sac has already formed, but its dimensions are very small, then yes - such a situation can be.

If there is a corpus luteum, but there is no embryo (not to be confused with the corpus luteum of the ovary, we are talking about an extra-embryonic organ), then the likelihood that the embryo was simply not seen is quite high. Since, in fact, the yolk is obliged to nourish the embryo in the first three months. One of the causes of anembryony is underdevelopment, early reduction or complete absence yolk sac.

Action tactics

When anembryonia is diagnosed, the only treatment option is cleaning (curettage or vacuum aspiration). The main argument is that the delay of a non-developing organism in the uterine cavity is fraught with serious consequences for a woman. These procedures are not pleasant. On these days, it is necessary to provide reliable psychological support to a woman, because the loss of even a fully formed embryo is a tragedy.

Can a fertilized egg come out on its own? Nature has laid down a scheme for self-purification of the body from "wrong" forms of life. Therefore, when the embryo dies in the early stages, miscarriages often occur. Gradually, the exfoliation of the egg begins, the uterus pushes out the unwanted organism. But, with a reliable absence of the embryo in the PJ, it is not worth waiting for the body to cleanse itself. As well as how to run for cleaning.

The option when there is a pregnancy, but there is no fetus, the so-called chemical pregnancy, with the absence of a fetus is not a ban on further attempts to become a mother. According to statistics, most women who have been in a situation once, if there is a fetal egg in the uterus, but there is no embryo, give birth normally after additional examinations.

Pregnancy 2 months after anembryony is not recommended. The body does not have time to move away from stress. Experts advise next try to give birth to a child to begin 5-6 months after the scraping procedure. If anembryony is repeated, then this serves as a signal for a complete and thorough examination of both spouses. It will be necessary to pass a compatibility test, for different genetic abnormalities, which can provoke the development of an empty PU.

Another fairly common situation is when the embryo grows, but the fetal egg does not. Doctors in this case pose a threat of termination of pregnancy, since the embryo will be cramped in its shell, and it may freeze. Some hormonal treatment may be needed to stimulate the growth of the PU. But often, the situation when the fetal egg does not grow levels out over time, after 1-2 weeks the bag begins to intensively catch up.

Carrying a pregnancy is a rather unpredictable job, especially in Lately. Influence of negative factors environment is just starting to show up. According to statistics, about 20% of all women are diagnosed with anembryony. But, there is no need to despair and panic. It is necessary to soberly assess the situation, consult with several experts and then make a decision.