Ectopic (tubal) pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus.  It is a life-threatening condition to the mother. The fetus cannot persist. The most common place that ectopic pregnancy occurs is in one of the Fallopian tubes.  These are the tubes that transport the egg from the ovary to the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies also can be found on the outside of the uterus, on the ovaries, or attached to the bowel. The most serious complication of an ectopic pregnancy is intra-abdominal hemorrhage (severe bleeding). Ectopic pregnancy is usually found in the first 5-10 weeks of pregnancy.

Fertilization normally occurs in the outer half of the fallopian tube which is called the ampulla. The embryo is then propelled along the fallopian tube, by the coordinated beating of the cilia which line the tube, towards the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo gets stuck in the fallopian tube and implants here, instead of moving on to the uterus. 

 The following also increase your risk for an ectopic pregnancy:

• Age over 35
• Getting pregnant while having an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Had surgery to untie tubes (tubal sterilization) to become pregnant
• Having had many sexual partners
• Having your tubes tied (tubal ligation) - more likely 2 or more years after the procedure

 Ectopic pregnancies are caused by one or more of the following:

• Birth defect in the fallopian tubes 
• An abnormality in the tube's shape can be caused by abnormal growths or a birth defect.
• Scar tissue left behind from a previous infection or an operation on the tube may also delay the egg's movement.
• An infection or inflammation of the Fallopian tube can cause it to become partially or entirely blocked.
• Previous surgery in the pelvic area or on the tubes can cause devotions.

The following symptoms may be used to help recognize a potential ectopic pregnancy:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Vaginal bleeding, heavier or lighter than your normal period
• The pain may be in the pelvis, abdomen or even the shoulder and neck
• Weakness, dizziness, or fainting

Tests used to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy include a trans-vaginal ultrasound and a blood test that measures the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Ultrasound uses sound waves to visualize structures within the body. In a trans-vaginal ultrasound, the ultrasound transducer is inserted into the woman's vagina allowing clearer visualization of the uterus and other pelvic organs. It can generally detect intrauterine pregnancies that are 5 to 6 weeks along. hCG is a substance secreted by the developing embryo/placenta. The hCG blood level is measured to confirm a pregnancy and can be used to monitor the progress of the pregnancy.

Read about Bleeding during pregnancy: causes and symptoms

Read more about Pregnancy Symptoms

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