Ectopic Pregnancy in tricity
Consultant Gynaecologist & Obstetrician — dedicated to compassionate, modern women’s healthcare in Mohali. Dr. Sarita Malik
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What is Ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy is a complication of pregnancy in which the embryo implants outside of the uterus. It most commonly occurs in one of the fallopian tubes. It is also called an “ectopic gestation.” It happens in about 3 % pregnancies.
The developing embryo may implant in the fallopian tube, ovary, or a previous Cesarean or Myomectomy scar in the uterus or in the cervix. Ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening for the mother and cannot be allowed to continue.
What are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy may include:
What are the Risk Factor?
The risk factors for an ectopic pregnancy are:
Ectopic Pregnancy
What Are the Causes?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. Several factors may increase the risk.
- Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
- Use of an Intrauterine Device (IUD).
- Previous infections or surgery causing scarring of the fallopian tubes.
- Other conditions affecting normal egg movement.
How Is an Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a detailed medical history, pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, and blood tests to measure Beta-HCG levels. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent serious complications.
- Pelvic Examination
- Transvaginal Ultrasound Scan
- Beta-HCG Blood Test
- Clinical evaluation of symptoms such as pain or bleeding
Ectopic Pregnancy Treatments
Treatment depends on the stage of pregnancy, symptoms, and whether the fallopian tube has ruptured. Early diagnosis often allows less invasive treatment.
Methotrexate Injection
A medication used in early ectopic pregnancy that stops the growth of pregnancy tissue, avoiding surgery in suitable patients.
Laparoscopic Surgery
A minimally invasive procedure to remove the ectopic pregnancy. In selected cases, the fallopian tube can also be preserved.
Open Surgery
Performed only in emergency situations such as a ruptured ectopic pregnancy with severe internal bleeding.
How to Reduce the Risk of Ectopic Pregnancy?
Although ectopic pregnancy cannot always be prevented, the following steps may help reduce the risk and allow early diagnosis.
- Visit your gynecologist as soon as your pregnancy test is positive.
- Get an early ultrasound if you have pain, spotting, or abnormal Beta-HCG levels.
- Take prenatal vitamins containing folic acid.
- Attend regular gynecological check-ups, especially if using an IUD.
- Use appropriate contraception instead of relying on emergency pills.
- Avoid smoking.
- Practice safe sex using condoms to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Seek timely treatment for vaginal infections and pelvic inflammatory disease.
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