National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Hydatidiform mole

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My daughter had a molar pregnancy less than a year ago. She is pregnant again and is having similar symptoms as in her first pregnancy. What are the chances that she has another molar pregnancy?

The following information may help to address your question:


What is molar pregnancy?

Molar pregnancy is a condition in which the placenta does not develop properly. The symptoms of molar pregnancy, which may include vaginal bleeding, severe morning sickness, stomach cramps, and high blood pressure, typically begin around the 10th week of pregnancy. Because the embryo does not form or is malformed in molar pregnancies, and because there is a small risk of developing a cancer called choriocarcinoma, a D&C is usually performed.[1]
Last updated: 7/15/2013

If one has had a molar pregnancy, what is the possibility of having future molar pregnancies?

Although we cannot provide specific risks, the literature states that the majority of women who become pregnant after a molar pregnancy will not have another molar pregnancy. In general, the risk of a repeat mole in a subsequent pregnancy is about 1 in 60.[2]
Last updated: 7/15/2013

If one is concerned about having another molar pregnancy, who might one speak to?

If you are concerned about your chances of having another molar pregnancy, we recommend you speak with your health care provider.
Last updated: 7/15/2013

We hope this information is helpful. We strongly recommend you discuss this information with your doctor. If you still have questions, please contact us.

Warm regards,
GARD Information Specialist

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  1. Ectopic and Molar Pregnancy. March of Dimes. 2005; http://www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/14332_1189.asp. Accessed 2/21/2008.
  2. Sebire NJ, Fisher RA, Foskett M, Rees H, Seckl MJ, Newlands ES. Risk of recurrent hydatidiform mole and subsequent pregnancy outcome following complete or partial hydatidiform molar pregnancy. BJOG. 2003 Jan; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=DetailsSearch&Term=12504931%5Buid%5D. Accessed 2/21/2008.