Ectopic Pregnancy: Symptoms, Risks, Causes
Ectopic Pregnancy
Obie Editorial Team
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and starts to grow outside of the uterine lining. These pregnancies most commonly occur in the fallopian tubes, but other implant locations do happen:
It's crucial to recognize that ectopic pregnancies pose significant health risks, including severe bleeding which can be life-threatening if not immediately treated. The potential to carry an ectopic pregnancy to term is exceedingly rare, although in some rare cases, an undetected abdominal ectopic pregnancy can lead to a live birth.
The symptoms usually become evident between 5 to 7 weeks after conception and can include:
As the condition progresses without intervention, more severe symptoms like intense abdominal pain and heavy bleeding may emerge, indicating an urgent need for medical attention.
About 1-2% of pregnancies are ectopic, primarily due to fallopian tube damage or blockages, impairing the fertilized egg's journey to the uterus. Other contributing factors include maternal age, history of pelvic inflammatory disease, previous fallopian tube surgeries, or fertility treatments.
Key risk factors include:
Contrary to some beliefs, prior induced abortions are not linked to increased risks of ectopic pregnancies.
A vaginal ultrasound coupled with hCG testing is typically used to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy. In a normal uterine pregnancy, hCG levels double approximately every 48 to 72 hours, whereas in an ectopic pregnancy, this pattern is disrupted. Laparoscopy may also be employed, though it’s less common due to associated costs and risks.
Early intervention before rupture is critical, but even with vigilance, immediate care is essential if a rupture occurs.
If you've had an ectopic pregnancy in the past, informing your healthcare provider early in subsequent pregnancies is vital due to an increased recurrence risk. Report any unusual symptoms promptly for assessment and intervention.
If a fallopian tube ruptures, you may experience sharp, stabbing abdominal pain and significant internal bleeding. This situation requires immediate medical attention.
Depending on the stage and location of the ectopic pregnancy, treatment can include:
Experiencing an ectopic pregnancy can increase the likelihood of complications in future pregnancies, including a higher risk of recurrence, preterm birth, low birth weight, and placental issues. However, with proper management and monitoring, many individuals go on to have successful pregnancies.