What is an ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy happens when the embryo attaches somewhere other than the uterus. In most cases, this occurs in the fallopian tubes (tubal pregnancy), but it can also implant in the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix. Since these areas cannot support pregnancy, immediate medical attention is needed. This condition is a leading cause of maternal mortality in the first trimester and requires urgent medical attention.Causes and Risk Factors of Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy usually occurs when something slows down or blocks the egg’s movement, such as:- Damage to fallopian tubes from infections (like STIs or PID)
- Scar tissue or inflammation from previous pelvic surgery
- Growths or blockages in the tube
- Abnormal tube shape present since birth
Risk Factors for Ectopic Pregnancy
While any woman can experience an ectopic pregnancy, certain factors increase the risk:- A history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or STIs
- Infertility or IVF treatments
- A previous ectopic pregnancy
- An intrauterine device (IUD) in place when you conceive
- Age over 35 years
- Surgery on fallopian tubes (including tubal ligation) or pelvic organs
- A history of smoking
- Endometriosis
- Rarely, congenital reproductive tract problems or previous cesarean scars
Early Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
An ectopic pregnancy can initially feel much like a typical pregnancy, which makes it difficult to recognise in the early stages. While some women may only notice mild changes, others may experience symptoms that indicate a potential complication. Identifying these signs promptly and seeking medical help is important for safety.In this article:
Early symptoms may include:
- A missed period, breast tenderness, or nausea
- Light vaginal bleeding
- Mild lower abdominal or pelvic pain, often on one side
- Lower back pain
As the condition progresses, more serious symptoms may appear:
- Sudden, sharp pain in the abdomen or pelvis
- Pain in the shoulder
- Dizziness, weakness, or fainting
How Ectopic Pregnancy is Diagnosed?
Most women are unaware they have an ectopic pregnancy until a routine check-up, blood test, or ultrasound reveals it. If an obstetrician–gynaecologist suspects an ectopic pregnancy, several tests may be carried out to confirm it.These may include:
- Pelvic examination to check for pain or tenderness.
- Urine test to confirm pregnancy.
- Blood test to measure levels of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Lower than expected levels may suggest an ectopic pregnancy.
- Ultrasound scan to see where the fertilised egg has implanted.
Treatment for Ectopic Pregnancy
As an ectopic pregnancy cannot be transferred to the uterus, treatment is always required. The main approaches are:- Medications: Medications may be administered to prevent the pregnancy from developing and allow the body to naturally absorb the tissue.
- Surgery: A surgical procedure may be performed to remove the ectopic pregnancy, sometimes involving part of the affected fallopian tube.
Complications of an Ectopic Pregnancy
If untreated, ectopic pregnancy can result in:- Ruptured fallopian tube causing internal bleeding
- Hemodynamic shock
- Loss of fertility
- Maternal death (rare but serious)
Prevention and Reducing Risk
The risk of ectopic pregnancy can be reduced by:- Treating pelvic infections promptly
- Avoiding smoking
- Attending regular gynaecological check-ups, especially after tubal surgery or previous ectopic pregnancies
- Managing underlying medical conditions and minimising exposure to known risk factors
Takeaway
Ectopic pregnancy is a serious but treatable condition when detected early. Recognising the warning signs and seeking prompt medical care can prevent life-threatening complications. With timely treatment and proper follow-ups, many women go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future.Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Ectopic Pregnancy Explainer: Causes, Signs, and Care
- Can an ectopic pregnancy affect future pregnancies?
Most women who have had an ectopic pregnancy are still able to have healthy pregnancies in the future. However, the chances of another ectopic pregnancy are slightly higher. That’s why it’s essential to consult a doctor to understand what may have caused it and whether there are any risk factors that could affect future pregnancies. - How long to wait before becoming pregnant again after an ectopic pregnancy?
Doctors usually recommend waiting for about 3-6 months after treatment for an ectopic pregnancy before trying to conceive again. This healing time allows the fallopian tube to recover and reduces the risk of another ectopic pregnancy. A woman needs to consult her healthcare provider before planning her next pregnancy. - How can a woman reduce the risk of having a second ectopic pregnancy?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent another ectopic pregnancy, but the risk can be reduced. Avoiding smoking, preventing sexually transmitted infections, and getting early medical care are important steps. Women with past ectopic pregnancies should have regular check-ups and early ultrasounds to ensure the pregnancy is in the right place.
