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  • calendar_monthPublished on 8 Jan, 2025

    autorenewUpdated on 8 Jan, 2025

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Starting from fertilisation to delivery, pregnancy follows several steps in a woman’s body. One of the significant steps is when a fertilised egg travels to the uterus to get attached to it. However, in the case of an Ectopic  pregnancy, the fertilised egg doesn’t attach to the uterus. Instead, it may attach to the fallopian tube, abdominal cavity, or cervix.

Every pregnancy has around 5-10% chance of being ectopic. In this situation, while the fetus itself cannot survive beyond a few weeks, pregnancy if continued, causes acute pain and poses life-threatening risks to the mother’s life.

An untreated condition of Ectopic gestation or pregnancy is a medical emergency. Prompt treatment and awareness of what is ectopic pregnancy can reduce the risk of any future complications. So, let us understand this gestational condition in detail without further ado.

What is Ectopic Pregnancy?

In Ectopic pregnancy, the pregnancy does not occur inside the uterus. The fertilised egg rather develops inside or on different reproductive organs such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or the abdomen or cervix. 

Unlike normal pregnancies, the fertilised egg lacks the space to grow if it develops in the fallopian tube. Also, there could be a deficiency of proper nutrient supply if the fertilised egg starts to grow in the cervix, ovaries, or abdomen. 

In such a case, the foetus fails to survive beyond 12 weeks. Its dislodgement or the rupture of the tubes can cause extensive bleeding, leading to acute pain, vaginal bleeding, lightheadedness, nausea, and in critical cases, even death. 

Read below to know the causes of ectopic gestation in detail.

What are the Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy?

There may be several causes behind an Ectopic pregnancy, such as:

  • Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Infections, inflammation, or scarring can block the fallopian tubes. Mostly, Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) causes bacterial infections resulting in inflammation in the fallopian tube, which increases the risk of Ectopic pregnancy.
  • Hormonal imbalances: High estrogen and low progesterone levels cause the muscles of the fallopian tube to get tight, trapping the fertilised egg. 
  • Medical History: Having a past medical condition of Ectopic gestation increases the chances of future chances of another.
  • Birth control: Getting pregnant while using the intrauterine device (IUD), leads to Ectopic pregnancy. 

Now that you know what causes ectopic pregnancy, read on to understand how to spot ectopic pregnancy timely. 

Signs and Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy

The early stages of an ectopic pregnancy look similar to a normal pregnancy. However, there are certain symptoms that may differentiate between a normal and an ectopic pregnancy.

  • Vaginal bleeding: Light to heavy vaginal bleeding may be observed, which is different from a regular menstrual period. The bleeding may be red, brown, or black, and watery. 
  • Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is a very common symptom during ectopic pregnancy and can range from mild to severe. The pain develops slowly and becomes more intense as the pregnancy progresses. 
  • Shoulder pain: In some cases, you might also experience shoulder pain when the bleeding irritates the diaphragm. 
  • Dizziness: You might also feel dizziness and weakness due to excessive bleeding. 

What are the Ectopic Pregnancy Types?

Ectopic pregnancy can be of various types based on the locations where the fertilised egg has been planted. Read on to know in detail:

  • Ectopic Tubal Pregnancy: This type of pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants and grows outside the uterine cavity. Ectopic tubal pregnancy is the most common type of ectopic pregnancy, accounting for over 90% of cases. In such a case, the egg implants in the fallopian tube, usually in the ampulla.
  • Interstitial Pregnancy: This type is rare but dangerous because the pregnancy can grow undetected for a longer time due to the surrounding muscular tissue.
  • Ovarian Pregnancy: The fertilised egg implants directly on the ovary. This rare condition may occur due to ovulation abnormalities or issues with egg release, potentially causing ovarian rupture and internal bleeding. 
  • Abdominal Pregnancy: It is another rare type of ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when the egg implants in the abdominal cavity, attaching to organs like the liver or intestines.
  • Cornual pregnancy: It starts occurring in the upper corners of the uterus (cornua). Cornual pregnancy is often linked to uterine malformations, fibroids, or scarring from previous surgeries.
  • Heterotopic Pregnancy: It involves simultaneous pregnancies inside the uterus and elsewhere, such as the fallopian tube. Though extremely rare, it is more common in cases involving assisted reproductive techniques (ART) like in-vitro fertilisation (IVF).

How is Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?

Diagnosing an Ectopic pregnancy involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging, and laboratory tests. Early detection is crucial to prevent complications. 

Let us discuss some of the primary methods of diagnosing Ectopic pregnancy:

  • Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor will review symptoms such as abdominal pain, irregular vaginal bleeding, or missed periods. A pelvic exam may be performed to check for tenderness, an enlarged uterus, or masses in the pelvic region.
  • Transvaginal Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound provides a clear image of the reproductive organs. This imaging method is the most reliable for identifying an Ectopic gestation.
  • Blood Tests (hCG Levels): Blood tests measure hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) levels, which are typically lower and rise more slowly in ectopic pregnancies than in normal intrauterine pregnancies.
  • Diagnostic Laparoscopy: It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a camera is inserted into the abdomen to visualise the reproductive organs directly.

What is the Procedure of Ectopic Pregnancy Surgery?

The treatment methods for Ectopic pregnancy depend on the severity and symptoms. In the early stages, medications can be effective, but if the medical condition becomes more complicated, then the doctor recommends surgical procedures to avoid any further risks and complications. 

The surgery aims to remove the foetus and, if possible, preserve the reproductive organs for future pregnancies.

Let us have an overview of the procedures followed during the Ectopic pregnancy surgery:

  • Preoperative Evaluation: The patient undergoes blood tests, including complete blood count (CBC) and blood type matching, to prepare for potential blood transfusions if needed. Ultrasound or other imaging tests are used to confirm the location of the Ectopic pregnancy.
  • Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia is administered to ensure the patient remains unconscious and pain-free during the surgery.
  • Surgical Techniques: The choice of surgical approach depends on the patient's condition, the location of the Ectopic gestation, and the extent of damage.
  • Laparoscopy (Minimally Invasive Surgery): During this surgical procedure, small incisions are made in the abdomen. A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted to visualise the reproductive organs. Surgical instruments are used to remove the foetus developed during the Ectopic pregnancy. Laparoscopy involves less pain, minimal scarring, and a shorter recovery time compared to open surgery.
  • Laparotomy (Open Surgery): A larger incision is made in the abdomen, usually in emergency cases, such as severe internal bleeding from a ruptured foetus. The surgeon directly removes the foetus and repairs or removes the damaged reproductive organ.

Tips to Prevent Ectopic Pregnancy 

Although Ectopic pregnancy cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle choices and proactive health measures can reduce the risk. By addressing underlying causes and maintaining reproductive health, women can lower their chances of experiencing this condition. Here are some practical tips to prevent Ectopic pregnancy:

  • Practice Safe Sex: Using protection during sexual intercourse can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Infections like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a major risk factor for Ectopic gestation.
  • Get Regular Health Check-Ups: Routine gynaecological examinations help identify and treat conditions like PID, uterine abnormalities, or infections early.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking has been linked to damage to the fallopian tubes, which can interfere with the normal passage of a fertilised egg. 
  • Plan Pregnancy Timing: Spacing pregnancies appropriately and avoiding unplanned pregnancies can reduce the risk of an Ectopic gestation. 

In a Nutshell

Understanding Ectopic pregnancy is vital for safeguarding reproductive health. Recognising the causes, staying vigilant about symptoms, and seeking timely medical attention can significantly minimise the risks associated with this condition. Taking proactive steps to protect your health can provide peace of mind. That's where health insurance comes in. With comprehensive coverage, health insurance policy helps manage multiple medical expenses. From doctor visits to emergency surgeries, having the right insurance ensures that you receive the best care without worrying about financial strain.

>> Also Read: Why is Maternity Cover Important for Women?

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.

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  • Need Assistance? We Will Help!

    • Q. Can I get pregnant again after an Ectopic pregnancy?

      Yes, you can get pregnant again after an Ectopic pregnancy. However, the risk of having another Ectopic pregnancy may be higher, especially if a fallopian tube is damaged.

      Q. Can my pregnancy continue after an Ectopic pregnancy?

      No, a pregnancy cannot continue after an Ectopic pregnancy. Since the fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube, it cannot develop properly.

      Q. What are the common tubal pregnancy symptoms?

      Some of the common tubal pregnancy symptoms are abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and shoulder pain.

      Q. How long can an Ectopic pregnancy last?

      The Ectopic pregnancy usually ruptures after about 6 to 16 weeks. When an Ectopic pregnancy ruptures, bleeding may be severe and even threaten the life of the woman.

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