How does ectopic pregnancy occur?

1. What is Ectopic Pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when an egg implants outside of the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. Rarer sites of implantation could be in the ovary, cervix, and abdominal cavity.

Since the fallopian tubes are narrow, the growing embryo cannot develop normally, which could cause life-threatening complications if left untreated.

2. Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy commonly occurs when the movement of the fertilised egg through the fallopian tube is impaired. Some of the common risk factors are:

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)-infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause scarring of the fallopian tubes

Previous ectopic pregnancy

Tubal surgery or scarring from surgery

Endometriosis: Growth of tissue outside the uterus can affect the tubes.

Smoking decreases tubal function

Use of certain fertility treatments

Anything that harms or blocks the fallopian tubes increases the risk for an ectopic pregnancy.

3. Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms

Symptoms typically first appear 6–8 weeks following the last menstrual period:

Sharp or stabbing abdominal or pelvic pain on one side

vaginal bleeding (lighter or heavier than a usual period)

Shoulder pain, if bleeding irritates the diaphragm

Weakness, dizziness, or fainting is a sign of internal bleeding

Emergency: If one experiences severe abdominal pain with fainting, this may signal a ruptured ectopic pregnancy-which is life-threatening.

4. How is an Ectopic Pregnancy diagnosed?

Self-testing is not possible. Diagnosis by medical evaluation:

Pelvic ultrasound - checks whether the embryo is in the uterus

Blood test to quantify levels of pregnancy hormone hCG

Pelvic exam: This will check for tenderness or masses

5. Treatment of Ectopic Pregnancy

Treatment depends on the situation:

Medication - Methotrexate to stop the growth of the pregnancy

Surgery: Removal of the ectopic pregnancy if ruptured or large

Supportive care: This includes monitoring blood loss and recovery.

Early detection becomes important to avoid life-threatening complications and preserve fertility.

6. Ectopic Pregnancy Prevention

While not all cases are preventable, risk can be reduced by:

Preventing STIs can reduce the risk of PID.

Prompt treatment of PID or other infections

Avoid smoking.

Careful management of fertility treatments

Summary:

Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus.

Main causes: tubal damage due to infections, surgery, or endometriosis.

Symptoms: pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, dizziness, and shoulder ache.

Diagnosis requires medical tests, not self-testing. Prevention: STI prevention, early PID treatment, healthy lifestyle.