Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus — usually in a fallopian tube. It requires urgent medical or surgical treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.
Overview
In a normal pregnancy, the fertilised egg travels through the fallopian tube to implant in the uterus. In an ectopic pregnancy, it implants elsewhere — most commonly in the fallopian tube (tubal pregnancy). As the pregnancy grows, it can rupture the tube, causing severe internal bleeding. Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency.
Laparoscopic salpingectomy (removal of the affected tube) or salpingostomy (tube-preserving removal of the pregnancy) is the standard surgical treatment. Early diagnosis allows for medical management with methotrexate, avoiding surgery in some cases.
Causes
- Previous tubal surgery or sterilisation
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Previous ectopic pregnancy
- Endometriosis
- Smoking
- IUD (intrauterine device) in place at conception
- Assisted reproduction (IVF)
Symptoms
- One-sided lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Vaginal bleeding — often dark, watery, or 'prune juice' appearance
- Shoulder tip pain — a sign of internal bleeding irritating the diaphragm
- Dizziness, fainting, or shock — from significant internal blood loss
- Missed period with positive pregnancy test
Diagnosis
- Transvaginal ultrasound — checks for an empty uterus and a mass near the ovary
- Serial beta-hCG blood tests — abnormally rising levels suggest ectopic pregnancy
- Culdocentesis — checking for blood in the pelvic cavity (rarely needed)
Treatment Options
Laparoscopic salpingectomy
Removal of the fallopian tube containing the ectopic pregnancy. Standard for ruptured tubal pregnancy.
Laparoscopic salpingostomy
A small incision in the tube removes the pregnancy, preserving the tube for future fertility.
Methotrexate injection
Medication that stops the pregnancy from growing. Used for small, unruptured ectopics with stable patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a normal pregnancy after an ectopic pregnancy?
Yes. Even with one fallopian tube removed, most women conceive naturally. The recurrence risk is about 10-15%.
How soon can I try to conceive after ectopic pregnancy?
Wait at least 3 months — this allows time for emotional and physical recovery and to replenish folate levels, especially if methotrexate was used.
Ready to Discuss Your Treatment?
Our ectopic pregnancy specialists in Kondapur are here to help. Most consultations available within 24 hours.