One of the most joyful moments of a woman’s life is becoming a mother. For some, unforeseen problems like an ectopic pregnancy make the experience complex and draining. The condition however is not very uncommon. About 2% of all pregnancies are ectopic. That’s why we think it’s important to talk about this condition.
In this blog, Apex Hospital – a trusted IVF clinic in India – will be looking at everything you need to know about ectopic pregnancy. We will talk about its meaning, causes, signs, and treatments of ectopic pregnancy. Let’s get started with our guide.
What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy takes place when a fertilized egg attaches to an area other than the uterus, most often in the fallopian tubes. Also known as tubal pregnancy, this type of pregnancy cannot proceed normally because the fertilized egg cannot survive outside the uterus. If an ectopic pregnancy occurs and is not treated, this can potentially be life-threatening to the mother as well.
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Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy
Understanding the factors of ectopic pregnancy is very important to manage the condition correctly. Here are the biggest reasons behind the existence of ectopic pregnancy:
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is a disease caused by sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Such diseases often cause inflammation and scarring of the fallopian tubes. Damaged tubes are less likely to foster a fertilized egg to get to the womb which means bigger chances of ectopic pregnancy.
Tubal Surgery: Every kind of fallopian tube surgery, for instance, to treat a blockage, to reverse sterilization, or to remove an ectopic pregnancy, can leave scar tissue. This scar tissue makes it difficult for the tubes to work normally which results in an ectopic pregnancy.
Endometriosis: Patients of endometriosis, a condition in which the tissue of the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, may also trigger some irregular changes in their reproductive system. It might affect the fallopian tubes’ capability to move eggs and therefore cause a higher risk of an ectopic pregnancy to be realized.
Contraceptive Devices: While pregnancies with IUDs are rare, those that do occur are more likely to be ectopic. Also, the pregnancies after sterilization procedures have a higher incidence of being ectopic as well. Similarly, pregnancies after sterilization procedures are also at a higher risk of being ectopic.
Smoking: Multiple studies have shown that women who smoke are more likely to experience an ectopic pregnancy. Smoking damages the fallopian tubes by impairing them and hence they cannot move the eggs in a proper way. The damage is bigger for seasoned smokers.
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Signs and Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy
Early identification of ectopic pregnancy is necessary for timely treatment. Although the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are similar to a general pregnancy at the beginning, particular alarming features can suggest that something is wrong:
Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: This is often the very first and most frequent symptom. Pain usually begins on one side of the abdomen and varies in severity. In some cases, it might be transient, on the other hand, it might sharpen and become intolerable over time in other cases.
Vaginal Bleeding: Spotting or bleeding off the cycle may be the first clue to an ectopic pregnancy. The bloodstains are less or more than what you are familiar with and other symptoms are the same from time to time.
Shoulder Tip Pain: Shoulder tip pain is an uncommon symptom but it often present in ectopic pregnancy. It happens because the internal bleeding irritates the diaphragm. This distress is frequently localized right at the tip of the shoulder and could be intensified when one is resting.
Dizziness or Fainting: Getting lightheaded or even fainting might reveal the possibility of internal bleeding resulting from a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. This sign demands medical help right away.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting or bloating accompany other symptoms. These signals are characteristic of normal pregnancies. Nevertheless, they may signify an ectopic pregnancy when bundled with abdominal pain and bleeding.
Severe Pain and Shock: In situations when the ectopic pregnancy ruptures, the patients have severe pain of the abdomen, rapid heartbeat, and symptoms of shock (pale skin and cold, for instance). This is a medical emergency.
In case of experiencing any of the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, particularly together, go to the doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are necessary to avoid complications.
Treatments for Ectopic Pregnancy
Unfortunately, an ectopic pregnancy cannot be saved. However, timely treatment can prevent complications and preserve your health. The treatment options include:
1. Medication
Methotrexate is a medicine that is commonly used to treat an ectopic pregnancy. It stops the growth of the fertilized egg and allows the body to naturally absorb it. This kind of treatment is only good for an ectopic pregnancy which is in the early stage and is not complicated by side effects.
This method is used to reduce the need for surgery in many cases, and it is therefore a favorite among women with uneventful health and no ruptures. Prompt detection and diagnosis of an ectopic pregnancy are important to exploit this non-invasive treatment effectively.
2. Surgical Intervention
In situations where medication is not helpful and when an ectopic pregnancy has ruptured, surgery is the only option. This one includes:
Laparoscopy: The surgery is done through a small cut to remove the ectopic pregnancy, leading to faster recovery. This method has mainly post-surgery pain and shorter recovery compared to open surgery.
Laparotomy: This surgery is very complex and performed generally only in case of emergency. This operation is necessary when the ectopic pregnancy results in heavy internal bleeding or other problems.
3. Expectant Management
There are a few cases in which an ectopic pregnancy disappears on its own. However, regular blood tests and ultrasounds to confirm the absorption of the ectopic tissue are required. Generally, the treatment can be effective on women with mild symptoms who show a reduction in hCG levels.
4. Fertility Preservation Surgery
Women who are worried that they may not be able to have children in the future can give their surgeon the opportunity to repair the damaged fallopian tube instead of staging its total removal as the first choice. This is typically carried out during a laparoscopy, depending on the degree of damage due to the ectopic pregnancy. Saving the fallopian tube can be a good way of increasing the chances of successful future pregnancies.
5. Emergency Treatment for Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy
Ruptured ectopic pregnancy is life-threatening and the doctor will have to perform instant surgery. Symptoms such as strong abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, and shock should not be ignored.
Ectopic Pregnancy: Final Thoughts
An ectopic pregnancy is a challenging experience, but understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments can empower you to take the necessary steps for your health. With timely intervention and support, recovery is possible, and future healthy pregnancies remain a real possibility.
If you know someone who is struggling with pregnancy and searching for IVF treatment in India, consult with our specialist at Apex Hospital in Sirsa, Haryana. Contact us today through WhatsApp or call us at 91680 39000 to discuss your pregnancy goals.
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