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What Is An Ectopic Pregnancy?

By Rachel Lacourciere, edHelperBaby

  What Is An Ectopic Pregnancy?
           An ectopic pregnancy (also referred to as a tubal pregnancy, cervical pregnancy, or abdominal pregnancy) occurs when a fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes.  As the fetus outgrows the organ that it has implanted itself in (such as the fallopian tubes, ovary, abdomen, or cervix), it eventually ruptures, causing a critical situation for the woman due to severe blood loss.

 		   

  Symptoms
           Any of the following symptoms may indicate an ectopic pregnancy and should be discussed with your regular prenatal care provider immediately:
  • Abnormal vaginal spotting or bleeding
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Low blood pressure
  • Increased back pain (usually in the lower back)
  • Mild cramping on one side of the pelvis

 		   

  Risk Factors
           A woman may be at a higher risk than others of having an ectopic pregnancy if she is in any of the following categories:
  • A woman who is 35 years or older
  • A woman who smokes
  • A woman who became pregnant despite using certain birth control methods (specifically oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices, the morning-after pill)
  • A woman who has had a previous ectopic pregnancy
  • A woman who has had surgery on her fallopian tubes
  • A woman who has had previous infertility issues
  • A woman who has had Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) (PID is an infection in the reproductive system that develops because a sexually transmitted disease was left untreated.)

 		   

  Diagnosing
           An ectopic pregnancy is usually diagnosed with an HCG test, which measures the level of a pregnancy hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin in a pregnant woman's blood.  HCG is produced by the placenta regularly and if the levels are lower than expected for the woman's current stage of pregnancy, it may indicate an ectopic pregnancy.  Sometimes an ultrasound can also be used to determine if a mass exists outside of the uterus.  Otherwise, a pelvic exam can be done to check for any possible masses existing outside of the uterus.       

       Take the time to talk to your regular prenatal care provider about any additional questions or concerns you may have about ectopic pregnancies.

 		   

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