An ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition that needs early medical attention. Because many symptoms appear similar to a normal early pregnancy, the warning signs of ectopic pregnancy are often missed.
While a home pregnancy test may reveal a woman is pregnant, a fertilized egg can’t properly grow anywhere other than the uterus. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), ectopic pregnancies occur in about 1 out of every 50 pregnancies (20 out of 1,000).
Key Points
- An ectopic pregnancy grows usually the fallopian tubes.
- One-sided abdominal pain is one of the earliest warning signs.
- Light vaginal bleeding or spotting may also occur early on.
- Diagnosis usually involves an ultrasound and blood tests.
- Treatment can involve taking medication or having surgery.
What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilized does not implant in the uterus (womb). Instead grows in the wrong place usually the fallopian tubes. As the pregnancy progresses, the fallopian tube may rupture, causing major internal bleeding.
What Causes an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy usually occurs because the fertilized egg cannot reach the uterus. Common causes of ectopic pregnancy include:
What Are the Signs of Ectopic Pregnancy?
The signs of ectopic pregnancy are similar to a normal pregnancy. And these may include:-
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nausea and vomiting
- Evidence of internal bleeding
- Abdominal tenderness on examination
- Positive pregnancy test with no pregnancy in the uterus.
Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy
- Severe pain on one side.
- Light vaginal bleeding.
- Lower back or rectal pressure
- Dizziness, fainting, or weakness
- Sharp waves of pain in the abdomen
Who Is at Risk for an Ectopic Pregnancy?
- Women aged 35 or older.
- Previous history of an ectopic pregnancy.
- History of endometriosis
- Women with multiple abortions.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Ectopic Pregnancy
Prediction and prevention aren’t possible in every case, However, you can try to reduce your risk of an ectopic by following good lifestyle habits:-
- Quit smoking.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Use condoms to reduce your risk for STDs.
- Maintaining regular gynecological exams.
Diagnosis and Tests
An e
How Is an Ectopic Pregnancy Treated?
An
What about Future Pregnancies?
Most women who have had an ectopic pregnancy can still have healthy, normal pregnancies in the future. However, having one ectopic pregnancy slightly increase the risk of another.
When Should I Call the Doctor?
An to spot any signs of ectopic pregnancy.
Conclusion
What is an ectopic pregnancy and how does it differ from a regular pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes. Unlike a regular pregnancy, where the embryo develops within the uterus, an ectopic pregnancy requires immediate medical intervention, as the pregnancy cannot continue safely.
Is the abortion pill safe for ectopic pregnancy situations?
The abortion pill is not safe for treating ectopic pregnancies, and a blood test is recommended to confirm the location of the pregnancy. The medications mifepristone and misoprostol are designed to terminate pregnancies within the uterus and are ineffective in ectopic situations. Individuals diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy require specific treatment options, which may include medication or surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the condition, as well as careful monitoring of the pregnancy similar to a miscarriage.
What are the treatment options for ectopic pregnancy?
Treatment options for ectopic pregnancy may include methotrexate, a medication that inhibits cell division and is used to dissolve the ectopic tissue. In some cases, surgical intervention, such as salpingostomy or salpingectomy, may be necessary to remove the ectopic tissue and repair any damage to the fallopian tubes. It is crucial for individuals experiencing symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy, such as sharp abdominal pain or unusual bleeding, to seek immediate medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Learn more about this and other side effects in our Side Effects of Abortion Guide ↗
ps://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-complications/ectopic-pregnancy/
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4 Common Ectopic Pregnancy Questions Answered!
What causes an ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy is caused by a fertilized egg getting stuck on its way to the fallopian tubes. It is a very serious health condition that always requires medical attention.
How common is ectopic pregnancy?
While not very common, ectopic pregnancies occur in approximately 1 -2% of all pregnancies.
What does ectopic bleeding look like?
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Can ectopic pregnancy go out on its own?
Yes though very rare, an ectopic pregnancy can go out on its own a process known as expectant management. Should it not happen, seek medical assistance immediately.
What happens if an ectopic pregnancy bursts?
If
Who is at high risk for ectopic pregnancy?
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How long can ectopic pregnancy go unnoticed?
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References
- WHO – Abortion care guidelines
- Expectant management – expectant management fact sheet.pdf
