Ectopic Pregnancy

by | Nov 8, 2022 | Pregnancy, Women's Health

Ectopic pregnancy

What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy (sometimes called tubal) is a pregnancy that implants outside of the uterus – most commonly in the Fallopian tube. This is a serious condition in which the pregnancy cannot be sustained – meaning there is no chance of survival for the baby – and the life of the mother is at risk if not treated.

ectopic pregnancy

What are the Risk Factors for an Ectopic Pregnancy?

  • A previous tubal pregnancy in your reproductive history
  • History of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like gonorrhea or chlamydia
  • In-vitro fertilization (IVF)
  • History of surgery on the Fallopian tube
  • Use of an intrauterine device (IUD) as birth control
  • Smoking

How Common is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

Ectopic pregnancies occur in about 2% of pregnancies.

However because they are often treated in offices and not tracked, the actual number of ectopic pregnancies may be higher.

What are Common Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy?

  • Severe lower abdominal pain, especially on one side
  • Vaginal spotting or bleeding
  • Shoulder pain
  • Feeling weak, dizzy, or fainting

What Should I do if I Suspect I Have an Ectopic Pregnancy?

If you are experiencing severe pain or bleeding, you should go to the nearest emergency room immediately. For all other symptoms of this type of pregnancy, reach out to your doctor as soon as possible. Ultrasound is the best way to determine the location of your pregnancy.

How is an Ectopic Pregnancy Treated?

According to the Mayo Clinic, a fertilized egg can’t develop normally outside the uterus. To prevent life-threatening complications to the mother, the tubal pregnancy needs to be treated.

Treatment options include:

  • methotrexate injection
  • surgical removal of the pregnancy tissue (salpingostomy)
  • surgical removal of the tube (salpingectomy)
  • Occasionally close monitoring without treatment if there are signs the ectopic pregnancy may be miscarrying. 

Is Treatment of an Ectopic Pregnancy the Same Thing as Abortion?

No, it is not.  Abortion is the intentional termination of an intrauterine pregnancy.  An ectopic pregnancy is not inside the uterus.  Therefore, treating it has nothing to do with abortion.  In an abortion, the intent is to end the life of the fetus. 

However, in treating a tubal pregnancy, the intent is to protect the life of the mother. Unfortunately, the fetus or embryo is not viable, and no amount of medical intervention exists to make it so. Therefore, the demise of the fetus is anticipated, but not intended; it is necessary to save the life of the mother.

When should I seek medical attention?

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition that carries with it enormous risk to the mother and unavoidable loss of the baby. If you are in significant pain or bleeding, please go to the nearest emergency room immediately. If you suspect you might be experiencing an tubal pregnancy, you must seek help as soon as possible.

At Parkville Women’s Clinic, we are here to help you. You are not alone. Schedule your appointment today.

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