When a fertilized egg implants somewhere outside of the uterus, an ectopic pregnancy occurs. While most pregnancies happen in the uterus, ectopic pregnancies occur in about 2% of all pregnancies and have serious consequences if left untreated.

In this article, we will look at the reasons why an ectopic pregnancy occurs, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

What Causes Ectopic Pregnancy?

In most cases, an ectopic pregnancy happens when the fertilized egg gets stuck in one of the fallopian tubes, as the tube is narrow and may not have enough space for the developing embryo. This condition is also known as a tubal pregnancy.

Other possible locations where an ectopic pregnancy can occur include the cervix, in the abdominal cavity, or in one of the ovaries. Other risk factors for developing an ectopic pregnancy include:.

Previous ectopic pregnancy
Previous pelvic surgery
Smoking
Age (older than 35)
Endometriosis
Previous pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy

The symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy may differ from person to person, and some women may not even experience any symptoms. However, some common symptoms may include:.

Abdominal pain or cramping
Heavy vaginal bleeding
Pain on one side of the body
Painful urination or bowel movements
Nausea and vomiting
Dizziness or fainting

Diagnosis of Ectopic Pregnancy

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They will likely perform a pelvic exam to check for the presence of tenderness, enlargement, or bleeding in the reproductive organs.

Further testing may include:.

Blood tests to measure pregnancy hormone levels (hCG)
Transvaginal ultrasound to view the reproductive organs
Laparoscopy (surgery) to visualize the fallopian tubes and surrounding tissue

Treatment of Ectopic Pregnancy

The treatment of ectopic pregnancy depends on the size and location of the embryo, as well as the health of the mother.

In some cases, if the embryo is small and the mother’s health is stable, a medication called methotrexate may be used to stop the growth of the embryo. This medication is given by injection and works by stopping the cells from dividing and growing. The body then absorbs the small embryo over time.

However, if the embryo is large and the woman’s health is at risk, surgery may be needed to remove the embryo and any damaged tissue.

The most common type of surgery is laparoscopic surgery, which involves making small incisions in the abdomen and removing the ectopic pregnancy. In severe cases, a laparotomy (open surgery) may be necessary.

The Dangers of Untreated Ectopic Pregnancy

If left untreated, ectopic pregnancy can cause significant health problems, including:.

Heavy internal bleeding
Ruptured fallopian tube
Infertility
Infection
Death in severe cases

Conclusion

Ectopic pregnancy can lead to serious complications if not detected and treated in time. If you experience any symptoms such as abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, or pain on one side of the body, you should immediately seek medical attention.

With prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the chances of a healthy pregnancy in the future are high.