Ectopic pregnancy is a type of pregnancy where the fertilized egg does not attach itself to the uterus. The egg may instead get attached to a fallopian tube.
Ectopic pregnancy is a rare phenomenon and sometimes may even end up being a medical emergency. It makes up to only 1-2% of all pregnancies and according to studies, only 1 in 50 pregnancies turns out to be an ectopic pregnancy.
What are the causes of ectopic pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancies can be caused due to multiple reasons. Imbalance in hormones, and certain medical conditions that would affect the condition and formation of reproductive organs such as fallopian tubes, and genetic anomalies are a few causes of ectopic pregnancy.
What are some of the common symptoms of ectopic pregnancy?
The symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy slightly vary from that of a normal uterine pregnancy. However, nausea and breast soreness may be experienced. A few other symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include fainting or dizziness, heavy vaginal bleeding or spotting, intense pain in the abdomen, neck, shoulder, and pelvis area, and absence of menstrual periods.
How to diagnose and treat ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy can put the mother at risk, and hence a timely diagnosis is necessary to ensure damage control. Ectopic pregnancy can be diagnosed by a physical exam but the most common diagnosis is transvaginal ultrasound. A pelvis exam and a pregnancy test are also included to diagnose ectopic pregnancies. Since this type of pregnancy is highly risky to the mother, it is advised to get it treated as soon as possible to ensure the health and the long-term fertility of the mother. Treatment can be either drugs or surgery or both.
A woman can have a healthy and normal pregnancy post the treatment of an ectopic pregnancy. Hence, an ectopic pregnancy is just a rare complication that does not completely affect the fertility of the mother giving her great odds to be able to deliver a full-term healthy baby in the future.
