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Patient Reports / LoginEctopic Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Thajammul Samrin , Gynecologists
Table of Contents
Ectopic Pregnancy is a pregnancy that implants and grows outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. Because the pregnancy cannot develop normally outside the uterus, it can cause life-threatening complications if left untreated, including rupture and severe internal bleeding. Early symptoms may include pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, and missed periods. Early diagnosis and prompt medical or surgical treatment are essential to protect the mother's health, prevent complications, and preserve future fertility whenever possible.
What are the Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?
Early ectopic pregnancy symptoms can be misunderstood for those of a normal pregnancy. Nausea, breast soreness, and missed periods are some of the early symptoms of both conditions.
The first and earliest signs of an ectopic pregnancy are pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding. These, however, are the same as the typical early signs of any pregnancy, so the doctor will follow a step-by-step process to determine whether the pregnancy is ectopic. The following are indicators of ectopic pregnancy:
- Urge to urinate
- Shoulder ache
- Light vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain
The area of the blood accumulation and the damaged nerves determine the specific symptoms.
Emergency symptoms
If the fertilized egg continues to grow inside the fallopian tube, the tube can break. There may be severe internal bleeding. Fainting, extreme lightheadedness, and shock.
What are the Causes of ectopic pregnancy?
When the fertilized eggs get implanted and grow outside the uterus's main cavity, it results in an ectopic pregnancy.
It is not yet known what causes ectopic pregnancies. However, the following risk factors have been linked to it:
- Fertility treatments like IVF
- The shape of the fallopian tubes like elongated diverticulum
- Hormonal derangements
- Previous history of an ectopic pregnancy
- Maternal age is 35 years or above
- History of pelvic or abdominal surgery
- History of pelvic inflammatory disease
- History of endometriosis
- History of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- History of Tubal Ligation
- History of Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Intrauterine device (IUD) use
If you have any of these mentioned risk factors, it could be a good idea to consult with your doctor in order to avoid any serious consequences.
When to See a Doctor for Ectopic Pregnancy?
Women with a positive pregnancy test who develop pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, or dizziness should seek immediate evaluation by an Gynecologist or Emergency Medicine Specialist.
You should see a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Pelvic pain during early pregnancy
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding after a positive pregnancy test
- Persistent abdominal pain or shoulder tip pain
Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you:
- Develop sudden severe abdominal pain
- Experience fainting, collapse, or severe dizziness
- Show signs of shock, including rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing
These symptoms may indicate a ruptured ectopic pregnancy with internal bleeding, requiring emergency surgery.
How is Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?
The healthcare provider will suggest tests to confirm a pregnancy before looking for an ectopic pregnancy. Among these tests are:
A urine test:
- Utilize the pregnancy test card preferably with the early morning urine.
- Using the dropper, place 2-3 drops of urine in the sample well.
- If a light (faded) pink line appears, then you have to retest using the required amount of urine.
- If two pink lines appear that indicate you are pregnant, it is a positive result.
- If one pink line appears that indicates you are not pregnant, it's a negative result.
A blood test:
The healthcare provider may do a blood test to estimate the body's hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels. During pregnancy, this hormone is created. This is also known as the serum beta-hCG level.
An ultrasound exam:
An ultrasound is an imaging exam that employs sound waves to create an image of the body's internal structures. During pregnancy, ultrasound is frequently used. The provider will use this test to determine where the fertilized egg has been implanted.
A treatment plan will be developed once the doctor has confirmed the pregnancy and determines where the fertilized egg has been implanted. If the pregnancy is ectopic, one must go to the emergency department of the hospital immediately and be treated. There is no time to wait for an appointment in these situations.
What are the Treatment of Ectopic Pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancies, while still considered pregnancies, are risky for both the mother and the developing fetus. In these cases, the fetus rarely survives to full term and must be terminated. As a result, ectopic pregnancy necessitates immediate treatment. This includes the following:
Medication
If you are diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy before it becomes an emergency, the doctor may prescribe medications to prevent the fast division of cells within the ectopic mass. This medicine will cause cramping and bleeding and allow the ectopic tissue to pass easily, comparable to a miscarriage.
Surgical
However, in many cases, surgery is chosen over medications. The ectopic tumor is surgically removed laparoscopically in this case.
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What are the Post-Treatment Care of Ectopic Pregnancy?
After removing the ectopic mass, your doctor will give patients post-operative instructions and warning signals.
- One must not lift heavy weights.
- Keep hydrated and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation.
- Avoid intercourse, use tampons, and relax the pelvic region.
- Complete rest for one week after surgery or miscarriage, then gradually increase exercises.
What is the Recovery Process for Ectopic Pregnancy?
Recovery involves rest, monitoring, and gradual return to normal activities after treatment.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity
- Stay hydrated to prevent constipation
- Follow medical advice and attend follow-up visits
- Gradually resume normal routine after recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is an Ectopic Pregnancy diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic examination, pregnancy blood tests (beta-hCG), transvaginal ultrasound, and repeated blood tests to monitor hormone levels.
2. Who is at risk of developing an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Risk factors include a previous ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility treatments, smoking, endometriosis, previous pelvic or tubal surgery, and increasing maternal age.
3. How is an Ectopic Pregnancy treated?
Treatment depends on the stage of the pregnancy and may include methotrexate medication to stop the pregnancy or surgery to remove the ectopic pregnancy and repair or remove the affected fallopian tube.
4. Is an Ectopic Pregnancy a medical emergency?
Yes, an Ectopic Pregnancy is a medical emergency because it can rupture the fallopian tube, causing severe internal bleeding that requires immediate treatment.
5. What complications can occur with an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Complications may include rupture of the fallopian tube, severe internal bleeding, shock, reduced fertility, and, in rare cases, death if not treated promptly.
6. Can an Ectopic Pregnancy be prevented?
Not all ectopic pregnancies can be prevented, but reducing the risk of pelvic infections, practicing safe sex, quitting smoking, and seeking prompt treatment for reproductive health conditions may lower the risk.
7. What is the prognosis for an Ectopic Pregnancy?
The prognosis is generally good with early diagnosis and treatment. Most women recover completely, although future fertility may depend on the extent of tubal damage.
