Stone Baby

Stone Baby, also known as Lithopedion, is a rare medical condition where a fetus, usually more than 3 months old, begins to develop outside the uterus. Instead of being naturally expelled or surgically removed, the fetus calcifies and remains in the mother’s body, resembling a stone-like mass.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Stone Baby may include abdominal pain, a sensation of heaviness in the abdomen, missed periods, vaginal bleeding or discharge, and signs of pregnancy, such as breast enlargement and nausea. However, since the fetus is not viable, there is typically no fetal movement or heartbeat.

Causes

Stone Baby is usually a result of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. In some cases, the fertilized egg may also attach itself to the ovary or abdominal organs. If left untreated, the fetus will eventually die and become a lithopedion.

Treatment

As the development of a Stone Baby is considered a medical complication, prompt medical intervention is necessary. Treatment options include surgical removal of the lithopedion, which may require an abdominal or laparoscopic procedure depending on the location and size of the mass. In some cases, if the stone baby is causing no harm or complications, doctors may choose a watchful waiting approach.

Prevention

The prevention of Stone Baby typically involves early detection and treatment of ectopic pregnancies. Regular prenatal care and early medical consultation are crucial in identifying and managing this condition.