An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg grows outside the uterus. It usually grows in the fallopian tube. This tube is not made to hold a growing baby. Hence, the pregnancy cannot develop in a normal way. Instead, it can cause serious problems, like heavy bleeding. It can be life-threatening if not treated immediately with proper care.
This condition needs emergency care to keep you safe. While it can be a difficult experience, understanding the signs can help you get help sooner. Doctors are here to guide and support you through the process. We ensure that your health and safety remain the top priority.
What is Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy means when a fertilized egg grows outside the uterus. It most often occurs in the fallopian tube, which connects the ovaries to the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies occur in about 2% of all pregnancies. In rare cases, it can happen in the ovary, cervix, or abdomen. These places cannot support a pregnancy because only the uterus is made to carry a baby.
Ectopic pregnancies are serious and can become life-threatening. If the fallopian tube bursts, it can cause heavy bleeding, infection, or even death. This is called a ruptured ectopic pregnancy and needs urgent medical care. In this blog, we’ll explain the causes, warning signs, and treatment options. We are here to make you feel informed and supported during this difficult time.
Ectopic Pregnancy Causes
Ectopic pregnancies happen when something stops the fertilized egg from moving through the fallopian tube. This could happen if:
- You had pelvic surgery before, which caused scar tissue or inflammation.
- There is a growth blocking the fallopian tube.
- Your fallopian tubes are damaged due to an infection, like an STI.
- You were born with fallopian tubes that are not shaped normally.
These issues make it harder for the egg to reach the uterus, leading to ectopic pregnancies.
Ectopic Pregnancy Risk Factors
Certain factors can raise the chances of ectopic pregnancies. You might be at higher risk if you had:
- A previous ectopic-pregnancy.
- Pelvic infections like PID. It can cause scarring in your uterus, fallopian tube, cervix, and ovaries.
- Surgery on your fallopian tubes or nearby organs.
- Treatment for infertility with IVF (In Vitro Fertilization).
- A history of infertility.
- Endometriosis.
- STIs (sexually transmitted infections).
- An IUD in place when you conceived.
- A history of smoking.
- Age can also play a role. People over 35 are more likely to have ectopic pregnancies.
It’s important to contact your doctor if you’re pregnant and have an IUD or a history of tubal ligation. However, up to half of ectopic pregnancies happen without known risk factors.
Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms
The early symptoms of ectopic pregnancies can be very similar to normal pregnancies. However, you may experience additional symptoms, including the following:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Mild cramping on one side of the pelvis
- Pain in the pelvic area or lower belly
If the area around the ectopic-pregnancy ruptures and starts bleeding, the symptoms can become more severe. These may include:
- Feeling dizzy or fainting
- Strong pressure in the rectum
- Low blood pressure
- Pain in the shoulder
- Sudden, sharp pain in the lower belly
When Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy Starts?
Ectopic-pregnancy symptoms usually develop between 4-12 weeks of pregnancy. However, some people may not have symptoms right away, or may not have any at all. Some symptoms include:
- A missed or late period.
- Bleeding from the vagina or brownish and watery discharge.
- Pain in the lower stomach, usually on one side.
- Pain in the shoulder.
- Discomfort when having a bowel movement or when peeing.
- Feeling dizzy, or weak.
- Other symptoms like pale skin, fainting and sweating.
Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosis
You may not know that your pregnancy is ectopic until you visit your doctor. There are many tests, including check-up, ultrasound, or blood test. Your doctor may suspect an ectopic-pregnancy based on what they find during these tests.
To diagnose an ectopic-pregnancy, your doctor will do a few tests. These can include:
- A Urine Test: You will either pee on a test strip or into a cup. After that, the doctor will use a test strip to check the sample.
- A Blood Test: Your doctor will check your HCG levels. A low amount of this hormone can suggest ectopic pregnancies. Because normally a HCG increases during a healthy pregnancy.
- An Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create an image of the inside of your body. It will help the doctor find where the fertilized egg has implanted.
Once your doctor confirms the diagnosis, they will discuss your treatment plan with you. If they suspect the ectopic-pregnancy has ruptured, they can also perform culdocentesis. However, this is rarely used.
Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment
In ectopic pregnancies, it’s best to remove the fertilized egg. It will help to avoid serious health risks. Your doctor can use medication or surgery to treat the condition.
Methotrexate for Ectopic Pregnancy
Your doctor may give you a shot of methotrexate. This is recommended when your pregnancy is early and the fallopian tube isn’t damaged. This medicine stops the egg from growing and your body will absorb it over 4-6 weeks. The fallopian tube doesn’t need to be removed. Before treatment, your doctor will check your pregnancy hormone levels. Afterward, your levels will be monitored to ensure the treatment works. If needed, you might receive another shot.
Possible methotrexate side effects of treating an ectopic-pregnancy include:
- Abdominal pain
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness, Fatigue, Mouth sores, and Headache
- Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site
- Trouble sleeping
- Numb or sore bottom from the injection
Ectopic Pregnancy Surgery
If methotrexate isn’t an option, surgery may be needed. A common procedure is laparoscopy. In this procedure, small cuts are made in your belly to remove the ectopic-pregnancy. If your fallopian tube is damaged, it may also be removed. If you have heavy bleeding or your tube ruptures, emergency surgery may be required.
How to Prevent Ectopic Pregnancy?
People can’t prevent ectopic pregnancies, but there are steps to lower the risk. Maintaining healthy habits can help. It includes maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Before trying to get pregnant, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about any risk factors you may have.
Final Words
In conclusion, an ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition. It requires immediate attention and proper care. With expert guidance and timely treatment, we can help you through this challenging time. Our experienced doctors are here to provide the support and care you need. If you suspect you might be experiencing an ectopic-pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to ensure your health and safety comes first by offering the right treatment options to help you recover.