What causes a Hydatidiform mole?

A Hydatidiform mole, also known as a molar pregnancy, occurs primarily due to the abnormal development of chorionic villi, which are structures that normally help form the placenta. In a hydatidiform mole, the chorionic villi become swollen and form an abnormal mass that resembles a cluster of grapes. This abnormal growth can interfere with normal fetal development and can lead to complications during pregnancy.

The condition typically arises when there is a problem during fertilization, leading to either the duplication of genetic material from the father or the fertilization of an ovum that has no maternal genetic contribution. This results in a growth that does not develop into a healthy embryo. Therefore, the primary factor contributing to a Hydatidiform mole is the abnormal development of the chorionic villi itself, making this the correct answer to the question.

Other choices do not correctly identify the primary cause of a Hydatidiform mole. Multiple sperm fertilizing the ovum can lead to certain types of molar pregnancies, but it is not the direct cause; rather, it reflects an abnormal fertilization event. Genetic mutations in the mother and underlying health conditions can influence pregnancy outcomes, but they are not definitive causes of hydatidiform moles. The core issue remains the