Ectopic Pregnancy: Symptoms and Causes
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants anywhere other than the uterus, mainly in the fallopian tube. This can lead to life-threatening complications because the uterus is only made to hold a growing embryo. So requires emergency treatment.
In rare cases, an ectopic pregnancy can occur in an ovary or the abdominal cavity. It is not a pregnancy that can be carried out till birth. It can be unsafe for the mother if not treated right away.
Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy
The symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are similar to normal pregnancy, such as nausea, vomiting, missed period, etc. A pregnancy test taken at this time will show positive results; however, it cannot result in a healthy baby. Ectopic pregnancy’s early signs and symptoms are more noticeable as it grows in the wrong place.

The symptoms of ectopic pregnancy occur between six to ten weeks after fertilization. Other symptoms may include: –
Emergency Symptoms in Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic Pregnancy symptoms can be more severe as the pregnancy progress. One should contact the doctor immediately if one notices the following symptoms: –
Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy
The chances of having an ectopic pregnancy increase in women who have the following: –
How Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?
Ectopic pregnancy can be diagnosed by visiting a doctor’s place. If you have a doubt, see your doctor. They will perform several tests to confirm the pregnancy and look for an ectopic pregnancy. These tests may include the following:
- Urine Test: -: – These tests check the level of human chronic gonadotropin, a pregnancy hormone the fertilized egg produces after conception. But this may show a false result because the hormone level in ectopic pregnancy is shallow.
- Blood Test: – Blood tests check the level of a hormone called human chronic gonadotropin (HCG) in your body. HCG is also called a pregnancy hormone.
- Transvaginal Ultrasound:-Transvaginal ultrasound to check where the fertilized egg has implanted. This involves inserting a wand-like instrument into your vagina so your doctor can see if a gestational sac is in the uterus.
Treatment Options Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy happens anywhere outside the uterus, so it cannot result in a successful pregnancy. Because it is impossible to move the embryo to the uterus, its treatment involves ending the pregnancy either by surgery or medication. The doctor can tell you the best which option is best for you.
Medication
There is standard medicine called methotrexate which is used for treating ectopic pregnancy. This medication stops the embryo cells from growing and ends the pregnancy. It is given as an injection and asked for a regular blood test to check the effectiveness of the medicine.
The advantage of this option is that there may not be a need to remove the affected fallopian tube, and you may be able to avoid surgery. The doctor can recommend this option if the fallopian tube has not ruptured. But if you have specific health issues, this medication is not advisable.
You will have symptoms similar to that of miscarriage, including cramping, bleeding, and passing of tissue.
In this treatment, there is no risk of fallopian tube damage that comes with surgery. But you won’t be able to get pregnant for several months after taking this medication.
Surgery
Surgery is needed if the fallopian tube has been damaged. In this, surgeons remove the embryo and repair the internal damage, if any. This process is called a laparotomy.
In this process, the doctor inserts a tiny camera through a small incision so the surgeon can see the area needing treatment. Depending on the fallopian tube condition, it may be removed entirely with the pregnancy or fertilized egg or, if possible, will terminate only the pregnancy. If required, they may also repeat the process with a larger incision if unsuccessful.
Precention of Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy cannot be prevented, but there are ways to decrease the risk, such as:
Conclusion
If having a history of ectopic pregnancy, then don’t get disheartened. You can still enjoy the feeling of being a mother. Talk to your doctor and always be under their supervision if you get pregnant again. Have a healthy lifestyle and follow your healthcare guidelines.