Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is potentially life-threatening, here the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. This is most often in the fallopian tube, but can also be located in the cervix, the ovary, a caesarean section scar, and the uterine cornu. This is a non viable pregnancy. The greatest risk is that if the pregnancy enlarges it will rupture causing severe internal haemorrhage.

Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy

Women with scarred fallopian tubes are at the highest risk for an ectopic pregnancy.

Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy

  • Sudden, acute pain in one or both sides of the abdomen. The pain may be persistent or intermittent.

  • Abnormal bleeding. Light spotting or heavy bleeding.

  • Dizziness or faintness. Internal bleeding can cause dizzy spells and fainting.

  • Shoulder tip pain.

Diagnosis of Ectopic Pregnancy

This is made by performing a pelvic examination and a pelvic ultrasound scan and a blood test to check for pregnancy hormones.

Treatment of Ectopic Pregnancy

Treatment varies depending on whether the fallopian tube has ruptured.

Treatment of an un-ruptured ectopic pregnancy

25 % of ectopic pregnancies do not require surgery, and can be treated medically. Methotrexate can be administered, and it stops cellular division, and the ectopic pregnancy is absorbed. The fallopian tube remains intact.

Treatment of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy

If the fallopian tube has ruptured, then surgery is required. This can be done laparoscopically or via laparotomy to stop the internal bleeding and to repair the tissue. In such cases all or part of the fallopian tube is removed.

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