Signs of Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. This can be a life-threatening condition for the mother, so it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.
What are the risk factors for ectopic pregnancy?
Some women are more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy than others. Risk factors include:
- Previous ectopic pregnancy
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Endometriosis
- Use of an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Smoking
- Infertility
- Age over 35
What are the signs and symptoms of ectopic pregnancy?
The most common signs and symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include:
- Abdominal pain: This is usually the first symptom of an ectopic pregnancy. The pain may be sharp or stabbing, and it may come and go.
- Vaginal bleeding: This is another common symptom of ectopic pregnancy. The bleeding may be light or heavy, and it may be brown or red.
- Missed period: If you are pregnant, you may miss your period.
- Nausea and vomiting: These are also common symptoms of pregnancy, but they can also be a sign of ectopic pregnancy.
- Shoulder pain: This is a less common symptom of ectopic pregnancy. It occurs when blood from the ectopic pregnancy irritates the diaphragm.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away.
How is ectopic pregnancy diagnosed?
Your doctor will diagnose ectopic pregnancy based on your symptoms and a physical exam. He or she may also order one or more of the following tests:
- Blood test: This test can measure the level of hCG in your blood. hCG is a hormone that is produced during pregnancy.
- Ultrasound: This test can create images of your uterus and ovaries. This can help your doctor see if there is an ectopic pregnancy.
How is ectopic pregnancy treated?
The treatment for ectopic pregnancy depends on the severity of the condition. If the ectopic pregnancy is small and has not ruptured, your doctor may be able to treat it with medication. This medication will stop the growth of the ectopic pregnancy and cause it to be absorbed by your body.
If the ectopic pregnancy is large or has ruptured, your doctor will need to perform surgery to remove it. This surgery is usually done laparoscopically, which means that your doctor will make small incisions in your abdomen and insert a laparoscope. The laparoscope is a thin, lighted tube that allows your doctor to see inside your abdomen. Your doctor will then use surgical instruments to remove the ectopic pregnancy.
What are the complications of ectopic pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancy can be a life-threatening condition for the mother. If the ectopic pregnancy ruptures, it can cause severe bleeding and shock. This can lead to death if not treated promptly.
Other complications of ectopic pregnancy include:
- Infertility: Ectopic pregnancy can damage the fallopian tubes, which can make it difficult to get pregnant in the future.
- Ectopic pregnancy recurrence: Women who have had one ectopic pregnancy are at increased risk for having another one.
How can I prevent ectopic pregnancy?
There is no sure way to prevent ectopic pregnancy, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:
- Use contraception: This is the most effective way to prevent ectopic pregnancy.
- Get treated for PID: PID is a sexually transmitted infection that can increase your risk of ectopic pregnancy.
- Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of ectopic pregnancy.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of ectopic pregnancy.
If you are pregnant, it is important to see your doctor regularly for prenatal care. This will help your doctor monitor your pregnancy and identify any potential problems, such as ectopic pregnancy.