An ectopic pregnancy is one in which implantation occurs outside the uterine cavity. Thus, it is called a “mislocated” pregnancy.

Normally, an egg is fertilized in the ampulla of the uterine tube. After fertilization, the fertilized egg travels from the ovary through the fallopian tube and resides in the uterus for the rest of the trimesters. This process is called implantation.

However, with ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg does not implant itself in the uterus, instead it develops somewhere else. The most common location would be the fallopian tubes. It can also occur outside the uterus, on the ovaries or to the bowel.

The most serious complication would be severe bleeding. In cases like tubal pregnancies, the products of conception continue to grow. This will cause the fallopian tube to expand and eventually rupture. This can pose great danger since a number of arteries run outside these tubes. If the vessels rupture, one can severely bleed.

Research shows 2% of pregnancies are ectopic. It is the second most frequent cause of bleeding early in pregnancy. This rate is increasing due to high incidence of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This is an infection that can affect the uterus, fallopian tubes and the ovaries. The infection results to inflammation leading to tubal scarring and blockage of the tubes. Moreover, if the tubes are narrowed or blocked, the egg may move slowly or become stuck, never reach the uterus resulting to the embryo’s unlikely survival.

Women who smoke are at risk of ectopic pregnancy compared to non smokers. It is advisable for women not to smoke if they are planning a healthy pregnancy. It is better not to start smoking or to simply quit.

Some signs and symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are vaginal spotting and sharp or stabbing pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis. Once the ectopic pregnancy ruptures, extreme pain can be felt in the pelvic area. It is so intense that you cannot even stand. Profuse bleeding is also a sign of a ruptured pregnancy accompanied by sweating, thready pulse, cold and clammy skin and a falling blood pressure. It is important to call your doctor immediately for prompt treatment.

Ectopic pregnancy is not normal and does not represent a developing baby. It is considered life threatening and should be corrected as soon as possible. Diagnosis includes a pelvic exam and ultrasound to determine the location of the pregnancy.

Treatment includes termination of pregnancy through medication or surgery. Medication such as methotrexate is administered to help stop the growth of the embryo. This is only an option if you are still within the early stages of pregnancy.

Once the products of conception have grown, it is removed surgically through laparoscopy. This procedure requires small incisions on the abdomen and is less invasive than other surgical procedures.

The diagnosis and treatment of ectopic pregnancy can cause a great deal of emotional distress to the pregnant woman. She may feel relieved to be free from pain and at the same time extremely unhappy for her loss. Counseling is advised.

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