What You Should Know About Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy or extrauterine pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg attaches in a place other than the womb. Unlike normal pregnancy, when the egg grows inside the womb, the ectopic pregnancy results when it attaches in other places like the fallopian tube.
The impregnated egg passes through the fallopian tube to the womb. But when the fallopian tube is damaged, its passage is hindered and it attaches and grows inside it. This phenomenon is known as ectopic pregnancy. Invariably it occurs in the fallopian tubes. But in some rare instances, the fertilized egg can attach in the cervix, ovary or the belly. The growth of the egg in the fallopian tube can lead to its bursting which may result in profuse bleeding and other complications. So, immediate medical attention should be sought if you suspect it.
Factors responsible for ectopic pregnancy
- Smoking – Smoking increases the chances of ectopic pregnancy.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – Diseases like chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to it.
- Endometroid heterotopia – Scarring results in the uterine tubes.
- Frequent medical termination of pregnancy.
- Exposure to chemical DES prior to birth.
Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of ectopic pregnancy
Sever pain in the pelvis, abdomen or even in the upper part of the body like the shoulder and neck can be a sign of ectopic pregnancy. It can often be one-sided and is be associated with debility, fainting and internal hemorrhage, warranting immediate medical help.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is done by physical examination of abdomen and ultrasound and pathological test of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin).
Treatment
Surgery is the normal option for the treatment of ectopic pregnancy. Now-a-days, it is mostly done through laparoscopy to remove the ruptured oviduct.
Future pregnancies
If the fallopian tube has been repaired, then the chances of pregnancy are more than fifty percent. But if one of the uterine tubes is removed, then it is less than fifty percent. So, the chances of successful pregnancies after an operation for ectopic pregnancy are dependent upon the state of the fallopian tubes.
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