ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

An ectopic pregnancy, also known as a tubal pregnancy, occurs when a fertilized egg implants and begins to develop outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. However, ectopic pregnancies can also occur in other locations such as the cervix, ovary, or abdominal cavity. Here's an overview of ectopic pregnancy:

Causes:

• Fallopian Tube Damage: Conditions that damage or obstruct the fallopian tubes, such as inflammation, scarring from previous pelvic surgeries or infections (e.g., pelvic inflammatory disease), or abnormalities present at birth, can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

• Hormonal Factors: Hormonal imbalances or abnormalities can affect the movement of the fertilized egg through the fallopian tube, increasing the likelihood of implantation outside the uterus.

• Reproductive Health Issues: Certain reproductive health conditions, such as endometriosis or previous ectopic pregnancy, may predispose individuals to ectopic pregnancies.

• Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART): In some cases, ectopic pregnancy can occur as a complication of assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), when embryos are transferred into the fallopian tubes instead of the uterus.

Symptoms:

• Abdominal or Pelvic Pain: Sharp or stabbing pain in the abdomen or pelvis is a common symptom of ectopic pregnancy, often on one side.

• Vaginal Bleeding: Light vaginal bleeding, which may be mistaken for a period or implantation bleeding, can occur in ectopic pregnancy.

• Shoulder Pain: Shoulder pain may occur as a result of internal bleeding irritating the diaphragm, which shares nerve pathways with the shoulder.

• Weakness, Dizziness, or Fainting: Symptoms of lightheadedness, weakness, or fainting may indicate internal bleeding and should be addressed urgently.

• Rectal Pressure: Some individuals may experience rectal pressure or discomfort due to the proximity of the ectopic pregnancy to the rectum.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Ultrasound Examination: Transvaginal ultrasound is typically used to diagnose ectopic pregnancy by visualizing the location of the gestational sac.

• Blood Tests: Blood tests measuring levels of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can help confirm the diagnosis. Lower-than-expected hCG levels may indicate an ectopic pregnancy.

• Treatment Options: Treatment for ectopic pregnancy depends on various factors, including the location of the pregnancy, the presence of symptoms, and the individual's health status. Options may include medication to dissolve the pregnancy tissue (methotrexate) or surgery (laparoscopic surgery or, rarely, open abdominal surgery) to remove the ectopic pregnancy and repair any damage.

Complications: If left untreated, ectopic pregnancy can lead to life-threatening complications such as rupture of the fallopian tube, severe internal bleeding, and shock.

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Sources:

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2020). Ectopic Pregnancy. source

• Mayo Clinic. (2021). Ectopic Pregnancy. source

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