What is Ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside of the uterus’ main cavity. Ectopic pregnancy most commonly develops in a fallopian tube, which transports eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. This type of ectopic pregnancy is known as a tubal pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy can develop in various parts of the body, including the ovary, abdominal cavity, or the bottom section of the uterus (cervix), which links to the vagina.
An ectopic pregnancy cannot proceed normally. The fertilized egg will not survive, and the developing tissue may cause life-threatening hemorrhage if not addressed. Let’s learn more about ectopic pregnancy in this article.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Ectopic pregnancy
An early ectopic pregnancy may not cause any symptoms at first. They may appear very similar to those of a normal pregnancy. You may miss your period and experience stomach ache and breast tenderness.
Only around half of women with an ectopic pregnancy will have all three of the key symptoms: a missing period, vaginal bleeding, and abdominal pain.
Early indications of an ectopic pregnancy may include:
- Upset stomach and vomiting
- Sharp abdominal cramps
- Pain on one side of the body
- Dizziness, or weakness.
- Pain in the shoulder, neck, or rectum
Signs of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy can cause the fallopian tube to burst or rupture. Major pain is one of the acute symptoms, along with serious bleeding.
- If you experience the following:
- Significant vaginal bleeding
- Lightheadedness
- Passing out,
- Shoulder pain,
- Severe stomach pain, especially on one side
It is time to see your doctor at once.
Also Read: How Can I Get Pregnant with Blocked Fallopian Tubes?
When to Consult a Doctor for Ectopic pregnancy
Seek emergency medical care if you have any of these indicators of an ectopic pregnancy:
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain along with vaginal bleeding.
- Extreme lightheadedness or fainting.
- Shoulder ache.
Causes Behind Ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is most commonly caused by disorders that impede or obstruct the migration of the egg down your fallopian tubes. This may happen because:
- You have scar tissue, adhesions, or irritation from previous pelvic surgeries.
- Your fallopian tubes have been damaged, maybe due to a sexually transmitted infection.
- You were born with an abnormally formed fallopian tube.
- You have a tumor obstructing your fallopian tube.
Getting a thorough diagnosis will help you determine the cause of your ectopic pregnancy and utilise a treatment for it accordingly.
Also Read: How Does Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Cause Infertility?
Potential Risks of Ectopic pregnancy
The following are some factors that increase your chances of having an ectopic pregnancy:
Previous ectopic pregnancy: If you’ve previously experienced this type of pregnancy, you’re more likely to have it again.
Inflammation or infections: Sexually transmitted illnesses, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, can cause inflammation in the tubes and other adjacent organs, raising the chance of an ectopic pregnancy.
Tubal surgery: Surgery to repair a closed or damaged fallopian tube may raise the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy.
Choice of contraception: The likelihood of becoming pregnant while using an intrauterine device (IUD) is low. However, if you become pregnant while wearing an intrauterine device (IUD), the pregnancy will most likely be ectopic. Tubal ligation, popularly known as “having your tubes tied,” is a permanent form of birth control that increases your risk of becoming pregnant following the procedure.
Smoking: Cigarette smoking shortly before becoming pregnant can raise the risk of an ectopic pregnancy. The more you smoke, the higher the risk.
How Ectopic pregnancy Are Diagnosed
To detect an ectopic pregnancy, your doctor will perform many tests, such as a pelvic exam, as well as
A urine test: It entails peeing on a test strip or into a cup in your doctor’s office, after which a test strip is dipped into the urine sample.
A blood test: Your doctor may test your blood to determine the amount of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in your body. Your body only produces HCG during pregnancy. A low level may indicate an ectopic pregnancy, as HCG levels rise quickly when a fertilized egg implants in your uterus.
An ultrasound examination: An ultrasound employs sound waves to produce an image of your body’s internal components. Your doctor will use this test to see where the fertilized egg has implanted.
If your doctor feels that the ectopic pregnancy has ruptured, they can conduct culdocentesis, however this is rarely utilized.
After your doctor confirms an ectopic pregnancy and determines where the fertilized egg has implanted, they will discuss a treatment strategy with you. An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that requires prompt care.
Treatments for Ectopic pregnancy
There are two main types of treatments for ectopic pregnancy, namely:
Medication: In some situations, your doctor may prescribe methotrexate to prevent the fertilized egg from developing and thereby terminate the pregnancy. The drug should not harm your fallopian tubes. You cannot take this medicine if your fallopian tube has already ruptured.
Surgery: If your fallopian tube has ruptured or is about to rupture, your doctor will recommend surgery to remove the ectopic pregnancy. The technique is often performed laparoscopically under anesthesia. The surgeon may remove your fallopian tube while the egg is still inside, or they may only remove the egg, keeping your fallopian tube intact.
Conclusion
An ectopic pregnancy might be unexpected and frightening. You’re undoubtedly experiencing a variety of emotions, including sadness, shock, and anxiety. Even if your pregnancy was unplanned, experiencing an ectopic pregnancy can be stressful. Talking to your partner, doctor, or a mental health expert can help you navigate your emotions. If you intend to carry another pregnancy, speak with your doctor about the risk of another ectopic pregnancy.
FAQs on Ectopic Pregnancy
When do ectopic pregnancy symptoms start?
Ectopic pregnancy symptoms often appear between the fourth and twelfth weeks. However, some women experience no symptoms at first.
Why does ectopic pregnancy occur?
An ectopic pregnancy develops when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube. This occurs when the egg is unable to pass via the fallopian tube into the uterus.
Can ectopic pregnancy survive?
No, an ectopic pregnancy does not survive. In this condition a fertilized egg gets implanted outside of the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, and cannot grow into a baby.
Can ectopic pregnancy test positive?
Yes, an ectopic pregnancy can lead to a positive pregnancy test. However, a pregnancy test that is positive alone is insufficient to confirm an ectopic pregnancy. Ultrasound is the primary diagnostic tool for confirming the existence of an ectopic pregnancy.
Can ectopic pregnancy be treated without surgery?
Yes, ectopic pregnancy can be managed with medication rather than surgery. However, if the medication is ineffective, surgery may be required.
Can ectopic pregnancy be detected by urine test?
No, a urine pregnancy test cannot identify an ectopic pregnancy. However, a urine test can be performed to help identify patients who may have an ectopic pregnancy.
In which week ectopic pregnancy can be detected?
Women with an ectopic pregnancy may experience irregular bleeding and pelvic or abdominal pain, usually on one side. Symptoms often emerge six to eight weeks following the last normal menstrual cycle.
Can ectopic pregnancy be removed by medicine?
Yes, methotrexate is a medication that can help with an early ectopic pregnancy. It is administered as an injection into the buttock.
