Ectopic Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus instead of inside it. Most commonly, this happens in one of the fallopian tubes (tubal pregnancy), but it may also occur in the ovary, cervix, or abdominal cavity.

Because the embryo cannot develop normally outside the uterus, an ectopic pregnancy is a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention to protect the mother’s health.

Causes and Risk Factors

Ectopic pregnancy happens when something prevents or slows the fertilized egg from moving into the uterus. Several factors may increase the risk:

• Damage or blockage in the fallopian tubes due to past infections, inflammation, or surgeries.
• Previous ectopic pregnancy, which increases the likelihood of recurrence.
• Pregnancy with an IUD in place or after tubal ligation.
• Fertility treatments and history of infertility.
• Endometriosis which can cause scarring or distortion in the tubes.
• Smoking can affect how the fallopian tubes function.
• Increasing age, especially above 35.

In many cases, however, ectopic pregnancy can occur without any known risk factors.

Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy

Early symptoms may look similar to a normal pregnancy, such as missed periods, nausea, or breast tenderness. As the ectopic pregnancy progresses, more concerning symptoms may appear:

• Sharp or persistent abdominal or pelvic pain, often on one side
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Dizziness, weakness, or fainting
• Shoulder pain, which may signal internal bleeding
• Low back pain

A ruptured ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency and may cause severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, and signs of shock.

Diagnosis

Because ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening, early diagnosis is crucial. Doctors typically use:

• Blood tests to check pregnancy hormone levels
• Ultrasound, especially transvaginal scans, to locate the pregnancy
• Physical examination
• Laparoscopy in unclear or urgent cases to view internal organs directly

Prompt diagnosis helps determine the safest and most effective treatment.

Treatment Options

The treatment plan depends on how early the ectopic pregnancy is detected and the individual’s health condition.

1. Medical Treatment (Methotrexate)

If the ectopic pregnancy is detected early and there is no rupture, medication may be used to stop the growth of pregnancy tissue. The body then absorbs the tissue naturally.

2. Surgical Treatment

Laparoscopic surgery is commonly used to remove the ectopic pregnancy. Depending on the situation, the surgeon may:

• Remove only the pregnancy tissue, or
• Remove part or all of the affected fallopian tube

Emergency surgery is required if the fallopian tube has ruptured, to stop internal bleeding and protect the mother’s life.

3. Expectant Management

In rare cases where hormone levels are low and decreasing on their own, doctors may monitor the patient closely without immediate treatment.

Complications and Future Fertility

If untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can cause severe internal bleeding and can be life-threatening. However, with timely medical care, most women recover fully.

Fertility after an ectopic pregnancy depends on:

• The health of the remaining fallopian tube
• The cause of the ectopic pregnancy
• Overall reproductive health

Many women go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future.

When to Seek Medical Help

You should contact a doctor immediately if you:

• Have a positive pregnancy test with abdominal or pelvic pain
• Experience unusual bleeding
• Feel faint, dizzy, or notice shoulder pain
• Have a history of ectopic pregnancy or fallopian tube problems

Early medical attention can prevent complications and protect your reproductive health.

Final Thoughts

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition, but with awareness and early intervention, it is manageable. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options empowers women to seek help quickly and make informed health decisions.