Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. The egg cannot develop properly outside the uterus, so the pregnancy cannot continue.
Ectopic pregnancy is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt treatment. If you think you may have an ectopic pregnancy, see your doctor right away.
Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms of ectopic pregnancy may include:
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Abdominal pain, typically on one side
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Shoulder pain
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Weakness
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Fainting
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Vaginal bleeding
If you have these signs or symptoms and think you may have an ectopic pregnancy, see your doctor right away.
An ectopic pregnancy can't continue normally. The growing tissue can rupture the fallopian tube, which can cause life-threatening bleeding.
Causes
Ectopic pregnancy is usually caused by a problem with the way the egg travels from the ovary through the fallopian tube to the uterus.
Risk factors
Risk factors for ectopic pregnancy include:
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Previous ectopic pregnancy
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Previous surgery on the fallopian tubes
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Infection of the fallopian tubes
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Infertility
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Smoking
Prevention
There is no way to prevent ectopic pregnancy. However, you can reduce your risk by not smoking and by seeking prompt treatment if you have an infection of the reproductive organs.
Diagnosis
If you have risk factors for ectopic pregnancy, your doctor may recommend a procedure called laparoscopy. Laparoscopy involves making a small incision in the abdomen and inserting a thin, lighted tube to look for signs of ectopic pregnancy.
- If you have laparoscopy and ectopic pregnancy is found, the pregnancy can often be treated with medication or surgery.
- If you have laparoscopy and no ectopic pregnancy is found, your doctor will likely do additional testing to rule out other conditions.
- Ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed by a combination of physical examination, blood tests, and ultrasound.
Treatment
Treatment for ectopic pregnancy depends on how far along the pregnancy is and whether you want to try to have children in the future.
- If the ectopic pregnancy is found early, you may be treated with medication. This medication, called methotrexate, stops the growth of the pregnancy and allows your body to absorb the tissue.
- If the ectopic pregnancy is found later or if you have a rupture of the fallopian tube, you may need surgery. Surgery may involve removing the fallopian tube or the ectopic pregnancy.
- If you want to have children in the future, your doctor may be able to save the fallopian tube.
Can a baby survive an ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy is a dangerous and life-threatening condition where the fertilized egg implants itself outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. If left untreated, the growing embryo can rupture the fallopian tube, resulting in severe pain and internal bleeding. In some cases, the pregnancy can be “rescued” and the baby can survive, but this is rare. In most cases, the pregnancy must be terminated to save the mother’s life.
Coping and support
Ectopic pregnancy can be a difficult experience. You may feel scared, sad, or angry. It's important to get support from family and friends. You may also want to talk to someone who has been through a similar experience.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has a list of support groups for women with ectopic pregnancy.
You can also call the ACOG Helpline at 1-800-673-8444.
Complications
Ectopic pregnancy can cause serious complications, including:
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Rupture of the fallopian tube
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Heavy bleeding
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Infection
If you have an ectopic pregnancy, you're at risk for having another ectopic pregnancy in the future.
You may also have difficulty getting pregnant in the future. If you want to get pregnant, talk to your doctor about your options.
Living with ectopic pregnancy
If you have an ectopic pregnancy, you may need to take it easy for a while. Follow your doctor's instructions on how much activity you can do.
You may also need to take it easy if you've had surgery to remove the ectopic pregnancy. It's important to give your body time to heal.
Ectopic pregnancy can be a difficult experience. You may feel scared, sad, or angry. It's important to get support from family and friends. You may also want to talk to someone who has been through a similar experience.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has a list of support groups for women with ectopic pregnancy.
You can also call the ACOG Helpline at 1-800-673-8444.
