An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. Symptoms can include abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Risk factors include age over 35, previous pelvic infections or surgeries, and smoking. Diagnosis involves pregnancy tests, pelvic exams, and ultrasounds. Treatment options depend on the location and development of the ectopic pregnancy but may include medication or surgery to remove the embryo and repair any damage.

1. Ectopic
Pregnancy

3.  From fertilization to delivery, pregnancy requires a
number of steps in a woman’s body. One of these steps is
when a fertilized egg travels to the uterus to attach itself.
In the case of an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg
doesn’t attach to the uterus. Instead, it may attach to the
fallopian tube, abdominal cavity, or cervix.
 Ectopic pregnancy, also called extra uterine
pregnancy, is when a fertilized egg grows outside a
woman’s uterus, somewhere else in their belly.
Ectopic Pregnancy ?

4. The cause of an ectopic pregnancy isn’t always clear. In some
cases, the following conditions have been linked with an ectopic
pregnancy:
 Inflammation and scarring of the fallopian tubes from a
previous medical condition, infection, or surgery
 Hormonal factors
 Genetic abnormalities
 Birth defects
 Medical conditions that affect the shape and condition of the
fallopian tubes and reproductive organs
Causes of ectopic
pregnancy

5. Nausea and breast soreness are common symptoms in both
ectopic and uterine pregnancies. The following symptoms are
more common in an ectopic pregnancy and can indicate a
medical emergency:
 Sharp waves of pain in the abdomen, pelvis, shoulder or neck
 Severe pain that occurs on one side of the abdomen
 Light to heavy vaginal spotting or bleeding
 Dizziness or fainting
 Rectal pressure
Sign and Symptoms of
Ectopic Pregnancy

6. All sexually active women are at some risk for an ectopic
pregnancy. Risk factors can increase from any of them:
 Maternal age of 35 years or older
 History of pelvic surgery, abdominal surgery, or multiple
abortions
 History of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
 History of endometriosis
 Conception aided by fertility drugs or procedures
 Smoking
Risk factors Ectopic
pregnancy

7.  Doctor will probably do tests that include a Pregnancy test
and Pelvic exam. Doctor might do an Ultrasound to look at
your uterus and fallopian tubes.
 Transvaginal ultrasound. This involves inserting a special
wand-like instrument into your vagina so that your doctor can
see if a gestational sac is in the uterus.
Diagnosis
Ectopic pregnancy
 Doctor may also use a blood test to determine your levels of
hCG and progesterone

8. Ectopic pregnancies aren’t safe for the mother. Also, the
embryo won’t be able to develop to term.
It’s necessary to remove the embryo as soon as possible for
the mother’s immediate health and long-term fertility.
Treatment options vary depending on the location of the
ectopic pregnancy and its development.
Treating
Ectopic pregnancy

9. In this case, Doctor can prescribe several medications that could
keep the ectopic mass from bursting. One common medication
for this is methotrexate (Rheumatrex).
Methotrexate is a drug that stops the growth of rapidly dividing
cells, such as the cells of the ectopic mass. Patient should also get
regular blood tests to ensure that the drug is effective. When
effective, the medication will cause symptoms that are similar to
that of a miscarriage. These include:
 Cramping
 Bleeding
Medication

10. Many surgeons suggest removing the embryo and repairing
any internal damage.
This procedure is called a laparotomy.
Doctor will insert a small camera through a small incision
to make sure they can see their work.
The surgeon then removes the embryo and repairs any
damage to the fallopian tube.
Surgery

11. Home care
Doctor will give you specific instructions regarding the care of
your incisions after surgery. The chief goals are to keep your
incisions clean and dry while they heal. Check them daily for
infection signs, which could include:
 Bleeding that won’t stop
 Excessive bleeding
 foul-smelling drainage from the site
 Hot to the touch
 Redness
 Swelling

12.  Prediction and prevention aren’t possible in every case.
 Patient may be able to reduce risk through good
reproductive health maintenance.
 Partner should wear a condom during sex and limit your
number of sexual partners.
 This reduces risk for STDs, which can cause PID, a
condition that can cause inflammation in the fallopian tubes.
Prevention of Ectopic
pregnancy