Ectopic Pregnancy is a condition where the embryo implants outside the uterine cavity. It usually occurs in the fallopian tubes (uterine tubes), preventing the embryo from developing into a fetus. Therefore, when pregnant, prenatal care and scheduled check-ups are essential. If an ectopic pregnancy is left untreated, the embryo will grow inside the fallopian tube, causing it to rupture, leading to internal bleeding and hemorrhage in the abdominal cavity, which can be life-threatening. Pregnant women should closely monitor their symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if any abnormalities occur.
Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy
- Lower abdominal pain radiating to the rectum, thigh, or shoulder
- Vaginal bleeding, usually light
- Dizziness, fainting, or shock
Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy
1. Abnormal shape of the fallopian tubes, preventing the embryo from moving to implant in the uterine cavity. Abnormal fallopian tubes are often caused by:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease from sexually transmitted infections causing adhesions in the fallopian tubes
- Scars and adhesions from surgery
- Previous history of ectopic pregnancy
- Sterilization or reversal of female sterilization
2. Use of medications and hormones
3. Hormonal imbalance during pregnancy
4. Pregnant women aged 35 years or older, increasing the risk of changes or reduced function in reproductive organs
Diagnosis of Ectopic Pregnancy
- The doctor will take a history of symptoms and menstruation along with a physical examination of the abdomen
- Pelvic examination
- Blood test for HCG hormone and transvaginal ultrasound will not detect the embryo in the uterine cavity but will find the embryo outside the uterine cavity
Treatment of Ectopic Pregnancy
- Medication using chemotherapy drugs such as Methotrexate, which inhibits cell growth. If medication is ineffective, surgery is necessary. Medication is considered when the gestational sac is not too large and the patient does not have significant bleeding or shock.
- Surgery involves incising the fallopian tube to remove the embryo and repairing the tube. This method preserves the fallopian tube but carries a risk of recurrent ectopic pregnancy. Alternatively, removal of the fallopian tube may be performed. Surgery can be done via laparotomy or laparoscopy, with laparoscopy resulting in smaller wounds and faster recovery.
- Management of complications such as shock from severe bleeding may require blood transfusion. Infections may require anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics.
Prevention of Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy cannot be controlled but risk factors that may damage abdominal and reproductive organs, leading to ectopic pregnancy, can be reduced, such as:
- Practice safe sex by using condoms and avoid frequently changing sexual partners to prevent sexually transmitted infections and pelvic inflammatory disease
- Maintain good health and avoid smoking, as smokers or former smokers have a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy
- Pregnant women should monitor symptoms closely and seek medical attention promptly if experiencing severe abdominal pain or abnormal bleeding
