Ectopic Pregnancy
Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg attaches itself in a place other than inside the uterus. Almost all ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tube and are thus sometimes called tubal pregnancies. The fallopian tubes are not designed to hold a growing embryo; thus, the fertilized egg in a tubal pregnancy cannot develop properly and must be treated. An ectopic pregnancy happens in 1 out of 50 pregnancies.
Causes:
- An infection or inflammation of the fallopian tube can cause it to become partially or entirely blocked.
- Scar tissue from a previous infection or a surgical procedure on the tube may also impede the egg’s movement.
- Previous surgery in the pelvic area or on the tubes can cause adhesions.
- Abnormal growths or a birth defect can result in an abnormality in the tube’s shape.
Symptoms:
- Sharp or stabbing pain that may come and go and vary in intensity. (The pain may be in the pelvis, abdomen, or even the shoulder and neck due to blood from a ruptured ectopic pregnancy gathering up under the diaphragm).
- Vaginal bleeding heavier or lighter than your normal period
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Weakness, dizziness or fainting
Treatment:
- Methotrexate may be given, which allows the body to absorb the pregnancy tissue and may save the fallopian tube, depending on how far the pregnancy has progressed.
- If the tube has become stretched or has ruptured and started bleeding, part or all of it may have to be removed. In this case, bleeding needs to be stopped promptly, and emergency surgery is necessary.
- Laparoscopic surgery under general anesthesia may be performed. This procedure involves a surgeon using a laparoscope to remove the ectopic pregnancy and repair or remove the affected fallopian tube. If the ectopic pregnancy cannot be removed by a laparoscopically, another surgical procedure called a laparotomy may be done.
Prognosis: The chances of having a successful pregnancy after an ectopic pregnancy may be reduced, but this will depend on why the pregnancy was ectopic and your medical history. If the fallopian tubes have been left in place, you have approximately a 60% chance of having a successful pregnancy in the future.
