Ectopic Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

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Ectopic pregnancy is a condition where a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. This can cause serious complications, such as bleeding, infection, and rupture of the tube. Ectopic pregnancy cannot continue normally and requires immediate medical attention.

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What are the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy?

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Some of the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are similar to those of a normal pregnancy, such as a missed period, breast tenderness, and nausea. However, ectopic pregnancy can also cause:

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• Abdominal or pelvic pain, which may be one-sided or diffuse
• Vaginal bleeding, which may be light or heavy
• Dizziness or fainting
• Shoulder pain, which may indicate internal bleeding
• Rectal pressure or bowel problems

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If you have any of these symptoms, especially if you have a positive pregnancy test, you should contact your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room right away.

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What are the causes and risk factors of ectopic pregnancy?

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The exact cause of ectopic pregnancy is not known, but it may be related to hormonal factors, genetic abnormalities, or abnormal development of the fallopian tubes or other reproductive organs. Some of the risk factors that may increase the chance of having an ectopic pregnancy are:

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• Previous ectopic pregnancy
• Previous pelvic infection or surgery
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia
• Fertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF)
• Use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) for birth control
• Smoking

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How is ectopic pregnancy diagnosed and treated?

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Ectopic pregnancy can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms may vary and mimic other conditions. Your healthcare provider will perform a physical examination and order some tests, such as:

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• Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create pictures of your pelvic organs and locate the embryo.
• Hormone test: This blood test measures the levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone hormones, which are produced by the placenta. Low levels of these hormones may indicate an ectopic pregnancy.
• Laparoscopy: This is a surgical procedure that involves making a small incision in your abdomen and inserting a thin tube with a camera (laparoscope) to examine your fallopian tubes and remove the ectopic tissue.

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Treatment Of Ectopic Pregnancy

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The treatment of ectopic pregnancy depends on the location and size of the embryo, your symptoms, and your overall health. The main options are:

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• Medication: Your healthcare provider may prescribe a drug called methotrexate, which stops the growth of the ectopic tissue and causes it to dissolve. You will need to have regular blood tests to monitor your hormone levels and make sure the treatment is working.
• Surgery: If medication is not effective or if you have severe symptoms or complications, such as a ruptured tube, you may need surgery to remove the ectopic tissue and repair any damage. This can be done through laparoscopy or laparotomy (a larger incision in your abdomen).

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How can I prevent ectopic pregnancy?

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Ectopic pregnancy cannot be prevented completely, but you can take some steps to reduce your risk, such as:

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• Practising safe sex to avoid STIs
• Quitting smoking
• Seeking prompt treatment for any pelvic infection or inflammation
• Following your healthcare provider's instructions if you have fertility treatments or use an IUD

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What is the outlook for ectopic pregnancy?

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Ectopic pregnancy can be a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. If treated early, most women recover well and can have normal pregnancies in the future. However, some women may experience complications, such as:

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• Damage to the fallopian tube, which may affect fertility or increase the risk of another ectopic pregnancy
• Emotional distress or grief over losing a pregnancy
• Infection or bleeding that may require further treatment

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Conclusion

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If you have had an ectopic pregnancy, you should talk to your healthcare provider about your options and plans for future pregnancies. You may need to wait for several months before trying to conceive again. You may also benefit from counselling or support groups to cope with your feelings.

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Sources:

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[1] Ectopic Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments - Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9687-ectopic-pregnancy

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[2] Ectopic Pregnancy - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088

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[3] What is Ectopic pregnancy and its possible symptoms, causes, risks, and prevention methods? - MSN Health. https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/condition/Ectopic-pregnancy/hp-Ectopic-pregnancy?source=conditioncdx