An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg attaches itself in a place other than inside the uterus. Most of them occur in a fallopian tube. Sometimes are called tubal pregnancies. The fertilized egg in a tubal pregnancy cannot develop normally and must be treated. An ectopic pregnancy happens in 1 out of 60 pregnancies.Women who are more at risk for having an ectopic pregnancy include the following:
• Are 35-44 years of age
• Have had a previous ectopic pregnancy
• Have had pelvic or abdominal surgery
• Have Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Have had several induced abortions
Ectopic pregnancies are caused by one or more of the following:
• An infection or inflammation of the fallopian tube
• Scar tissue left behind from a previous infection.
• Previous surgery in the pelvic area or on the tubes can cause adhesion.
• An abnormality in the tube's shape can be caused by abnormal growths or a birth defect.
The following symptoms may be used to help recognize an ectopic pregnancy:
• Sharp pain in the pelvis, abdomen or even the shoulder and neck that may come and go and vary in intensity.
• Vaginal bleeding, heavier or lighter than your normal period
• Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
How is an ectopic pregnancy diagnosed?
Ectopic pregnancies are diagnosed by your physician, who will probably first perform a pelvic exam to locate pain, tenderness or a mass in the abdomen. Your physician will also use an ultrasound to determine whether the uterus contains a developing fetus.
An hCG level and progesterone that is lower than what would be expected is one reason to suspect an ectopic pregnancy.
Your physician may do a culdocentesis, which is a procedure that involves inserting a needle into the space at the very top of the vagina, behind the uterus and in front of the rectum.
An ectopic pregnancy may be treated in any of the following ways:
• Methotrexate may be given, which allows the body to absorb the pregnancy tissue and may save the fallopian tube.
• If the tube has become stretched or it has ruptured and started bleeding, all or part of the fallopian tube may have to be removed
• Laparoscopic surgery under general anesthesia may be performed. This procedure involves a surgeon using a laparoscope to remove the ectopic pregnancy and repair or remove the affected fallopian tube
The chances of having a successful pregnancy after an ectopic pregnancy may be lower than normal but if the fallopian tubes have been left in place, you have approximately a 60% chance of having a successful pregnancy in the future.
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