Ectopic Pregnancy
In about 2 percent of pregnant women, the fertilized egg implants itself outside the womb, usually in a fallopian tube, causing ectopic pregnancy. As it is difficult for the fetus to develop outside the womb, ectopic pregnancy inevitably forces termination of pregnancy. Early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is necessary for preventing complications and infertility in the future.
Ectopic pregnancy symptoms
Ectopic pregnancy is usually diagnosed between the 4th and 10th week of pregnancy. The symptoms of ectopic pregnancy might be confused with those of miscarriage or pelvic inflammatory disease. Ectopic pregnancy causes vaginal bleeding, pelvic and abdominal pain. You might not know that you are pregnant by mistaking the vaginal bleeding for menstrual period. However, unlike menstrual bleeding, vaginal bleeding in ectopic pregnancy is watery and dark in color. If ectopic pregnancy remains undiagnosed, complications such as fallopian tube rupture and internal bleeding might occur, which might become fatal if not treated fast. Ruptured ectopic pregnancy causes intense pelvic or abdominal pain, dizziness, rapid heartbeat and perspiration.
Ectopic pregnancy causes/risks
The risk of ectopic pregnancy is greater among women with a history of pelvic inflammatory disease or sexually transmitted disease such as gonorrhea or Chlamydia. Women who had an abdominal surgery in the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, lower abdomen or bowel might develop ectopic pregnancy. Using intrauterine device (IUD) or contraceptive mini-pill during conception could increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Previous history of ectopic pregnancy and becoming pregnant after 35 might increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
Ectopic pregnancy prevention
Early diagnosis and proper treatment of sexually transmitted diseases might prevent damage of Fallopian tubes, reducing your chance of developing ectopic pregnancy in future. To minimize the risk of ectopic pregnancy, you should wait for at least six months following an abdominal surgery and at least for 3 months after laparoscopy before moving ahead with your conception plan.