What is Ectopic Pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube. This abnormal pregnancy requires immediate attention to prevent serious complications. This article explores symptoms, causes, and available treatment options for ectopic pregnancy.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary but commonly include vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, upset stomach, vomiting, sharp abdominal cramps, one-sided body pain, dizziness, fatigue, and pain in the shoulder, neck, or rectum. Seek emergency medical care if you experience severe pain with heavy bleeding, light-headedness, fainting, shoulder pain, or intense abdominal pain, especially on one side.
Risk factors include pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), smoking, advanced age (over 35), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pelvic surgery scarring, previous ectopic pregnancy, and fertility treatments like IVF.
Diagnosing Ectopic Pregnancy
Diagnosis involves a pelvic exam, blood tests to measure human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and ultrasound to visualize the uterus and fallopian tubes.
Treatment Options for Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy cannot be relocated to the uterus and requires intervention. Treatment options include medication and surgery:
- Medication halts cell growth, terminating the pregnancy. The body then absorbs the implanted egg over several weeks.
- Surgical Intervention: Emergency surgery is necessary if the ectopic pregnancy has ruptured the fallopian tube. Laparoscopy, under general anaesthesia, can remove the ectopic pregnancy from the tube without rupture.
- Recovery can take weeks, requiring follow-up appointments to monitor progress after treatment.
Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tube. Prompt medical attention is critical to prevent complications such as tube rupture. Treatment options include medication or surgery, tailored to the severity of the condition. Recognizing symptoms and risk factors enables early intervention, improving outcomes and preserving future fertility. Regular follow-up care with healthcare providers ensures effective recovery and ongoing health monitoring.
