Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD)
Molar pregnancies are not cancer (they are benign). There is a very small risk that the molar cells could become cancerous if they are not all removed.
In a molar pregnancy the fertilisation of the egg by the sperm goes wrong and creates abnormal cells or clusters of water filled sacs inside the womb. Molar pregnancies can be complete or partial.
The main symptom of molar pregnancy is vaginal bleeding.
Many molar pregnancies are picked up during routine ultrasound scans during pregnancy.
The most common treatment for molar pregnancy is surgery. Some women might have drug treatment.
You are closely monitored with blood and urine tests after your treatment for molar pregnancy.
Factors that might increase the risk of molar pregnancy include age and having a previous molar pregnancy.
Last reviewed: 29 Aug 2025
Next review due: 29 Aug 2028
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