Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus's main cavity. In addition to causing severe complications for the mother and baby, an ectopic pregnancy may rupture, resulting in life-threatening bleeding.
This blog post discusses the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of ectopic pregnancy, as well as how to cope with this condition.
Ectopic pregnancy may be caused by factors that affect the movement of the egg from the ovary to the uterus. These factors include:
Inflammation and scarring of the fallopian tubes from a previous medical condition, infection, or surgery
Hormonal imbalances or abnormal development of the fertilized egg
Genetic abnormalities or birth defects in the reproductive organs
Medical conditions that affect the shape and condition of the fallopian tubes, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
Conception that occurred despite tubal ligation or intrauterine device (IUD)
Conception that was aided by fertility drugs or procedures
Smoking
Risk Factors for Ectopic Pregnancy
Any sexually active woman can have an ectopic pregnancy, but some factors may increase the risk. These include:
Maternal age of 35 years or older
History of pelvic surgery, abdominal surgery, or multiple abortions
History of ectopic pregnancy
History of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia
Having structural abnormalities in the fallopian tubes that make it hard for the egg to travel
At first, some women may not notice any symptoms of ectopic pregnancy. The early signs of pregnancy may include missed periods, breast tenderness, and nausea, but as the ectopic pregnancy grows in the wrong place, it can cause more noticeable signs and symptoms, such as:
Light to heavy vaginal spotting or bleeding
Sharp waves of pain in the abdomen, pelvis, shoulder, or neck
Severe pain that occurs on one side of the abdomen
Dizziness or fainting
Rectal pressure
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if the ectopic pregnancy ruptures and causes heavy bleeding in the abdomen. If you experience any of these symptoms, you may experience shock, infection, and even death.
Ectopic pregnancy can be difficult to diagnose since it may not be detected by a routine urine or blood pregnancy test. Your doctor may use a combination of physical examination, ultrasound scan, and hormone test to confirm your diagnosis.
Your doctor may check your abdomen and pelvis for tenderness, swelling, or bleeding.
If the embryo cannot be seen within the uterus, it may indicate an ectopic pregnancy. Your doctor will use a transvaginal ultrasound (a probe inserted into your vagina) or an abdominal ultrasound (a probe moved over your belly).
You may be tested for human chorionic gonadotropin and progesterone hormones by your doctor during pregnancy. When your hormone levels are low or don't increase as expected, it may indicate an ectopic pregnancy. These hormones are produced by the placenta during pregnancy.
In order to avoid complications from ectopic pregnancy, prompt treatment is needed to remove the embryo. Treatment depends on a number of factors, such as:
The location and size of the ectopic pregnancy
The extent of bleeding or damage to the fallopian tube
The gestational age of the embryo
The preference and health condition of the mother
The main treatment options for ectopic pregnancy are:
Medications: Your doctor may prescribe a drug called methotrexate, which dissolves the embryos' cells and stops their growth. You will need regular blood tests to monitor your hormone levels and ensure that the treatment is working. This medication is usually given by injection into a muscle. It is usually recommended when ectopic pregnancy is early and unruptured.
Surgery: To remove the ectopic pregnancy and repair any damage to the fallopian tube, your doctor may perform a laparoscopic surgery (a minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and instruments) or an abdominal surgery (a more invasive procedure using a larger incision). If your ectopic pregnancy is large, ruptured, or bleeding, your doctor may recommend removing part or all of the affected fallopian tube.
It may not be possible to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, but you can take some steps to reduce your risk. These include:
Practicing safe sex to avoid STDs that can damage your fallopian tubes
Quitting smoking, as it can affect your hormone levels and the health of your fallopian tubes
Seeking prompt treatment for any pelvic or abdominal infections or inflammations
Consulting your doctor before using any fertility drugs or procedures
Following your doctor’s advice on the use of birth control methods, such as tubal ligation or IUD
Coping with Ectopic Pregnancy
A traumatic and emotional experience can result from a symptomatic ectopic pregnancy. You may feel a range of emotions, including shock, grief, anger, guilt, or depression. It is normal to have these feelings, and you should not blame yourself for what happened. You may also have concerns about your future fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
You can cope with an ectopic pregnancy by:
Seeking professional help from your doctor, counselor, or therapist
Joining a support group or online community for women who have had ectopic pregnancies
Talking to your partner, family, or friends about your feelings and needs
Taking care of your physical and mental health by eating well, exercising, resting, and relaxing
Seeking information and education about ectopic pregnancy and its implications
Planning for your future pregnancy when you are ready and comfortable
The condition of ectopic pregnancy is serious and requires immediate medical attention. You can recover from an ectopic pregnancy and look forward to a healthy and successful pregnancy with proper care and support. It can also have a lasting impact on your emotional well-being and fertility.
