Ectopic pregnancy
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
Ectopic means ‘outside’ or ‘in the wrong place’. About one in 100 pregnancies is an ectopic pregnancy — one that forms outside the womb (uterus). Most of the time ectopic pregnancies occur in one of the fallopian tubes, which carry eggs from the ovary to the uterus.
What are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?
In the early stages an ectopic pregnancy seems just like a normal one. A period will be missed and the usual signs of pregnancy, sore breasts and morning sickness, may be present. However, as the embryo grows the fallopian tube cannot enlarge with it and the problem reveals itself. The embryo may die. When this happens there is some vaginal bleeding which may be mistaken for a delayed period.
If the embryo continues to grow, the tube will be stretched and pain may be felt. The tube may rupture, causing severe pain and often internal bleeding. This can be life threatening. For this reason vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal pain in early pregnancy must never be ignored.
Diagnosing an ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy may be diagnosed when a pregnancy test is positive but an ultrasound shows that the womb is empty. Sometimes the ultrasound can show the ectopic pregnancy. Occasionally it may be necessary to insert a small telescope-like device — the laparoscope — through the stomach wall to see what is going on. If an ectopic pregnancy is found it is usually removed by surgery. The affected tube may be lost, but these days can often be saved.
What causes ectopic pregnancy?
Among the factors making women more prone to an ectopic pregnancy are:
- previous infections in the fallopian tube;
- previous surgery to the tubes;
- becoming pregnant with an intra-uterine contraceptive device (IUCD) in place; and
- previous ectopic pregnancy.
Ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition, but with early diagnosis it can be treated with minimum damage and optimism that future normal pregnancy will be possible.
Last Reviewed: 07 March 2009
