The ectopic pregnancy is a type of pregnancy in which the fertilized egg, rather than implanting inside the uterus, does so outside it. They are usually tubal but can sometimes implant in other locations such as the ovary, the cervical canal or the abdomen. An ectopic pregnancy can be dangerous for women, as – evidently – the implantation site is not prepared for a baby to grow.
What causes it and what are the risk factors?
In a natural cycle, eggs are picked up by the Fallopian tubes, where the sperm also rises in case there have been intercourses. At that point fertilization occurs, and the embryo begins to develop while traveling through the tube to implant into the uterine cavity. If this process is altered, the embryo may implant out of the uterine cavity, causing an ectopic pregnancy.
Although the probability is low, its incidence increases due to various risk factors, such as previous abdominal surgeries, history of ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis, among others.
Which are the symptoms and how it is diagnosed?
In many cases it’s asymptomatic until it is diagnosed, which is done by ultrasound. A gestational sac must be seen inside the uterus, if not we have to suspect the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy and look for the pregnancy outside the womb.
When the symptoms are visible, the most common are vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain, as well as possible hypertension, fainting sensation or shoulder pain.
What's the treatment?
Treatment is usually conservative (some ectopic pregnancies are spontaneously discontinued), pharmacological (with a medicine called methotrexate) or, if necessary, with surgery.
In Barcelona IVF we will accompany you and be with you during the pregnancy so that you can stay completely calm, and we will offer you help and advice when necessary. Do not hesitate to call us!
