An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside of the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. This condition is potentially life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
Here’s what you need to know about ectopic pregnancy and how to protect your health.
What Is Ectopic Pregnancy?
In a typical pregnancy, the fertilized egg travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus, where it implants and begins to grow. However, in an ectopic pregnancy, the egg implants and grows outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube (tubal pregnancy). Less commonly, ectopic pregnancies can occur in the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix.
Since these areas cannot support the growth of a developing embryo, the pregnancy cannot proceed normally and poses serious health risks to the woman, including a fallopian tube rupture.
Signs and Symptoms
Early signs of an ectopic pregnancy can mimic those of a normal pregnancy, such as missed periods, breast tenderness, and nausea. However, other symptoms that may indicate an ectopic pregnancy include:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Pain in your lower abdomen, pelvis, and lower back
- Dizziness or weakness
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Shoulder pain
- Rectal pressure or bowel problems
If you’re pregnant and experiencing these symptoms, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, including:
- A previous ectopic pregnancy
- A history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection that can cause scar tissue to form in your fallopian tubes, uterus, ovaries, and cervix
- Surgery on your fallopian tubes (including tubal ligation) or on the other organs of your pelvic area
- A history of infertility
- Treatment for infertility with in vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Endometriosis
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- An IUD in place at the time of conception
- A history of smoking tobacco
Protecting Your Health
If you’re pregnant, the following steps can help protect your health:
- Early Detection: Regular prenatal care and early ultrasound exams can help detect ectopic pregnancies before they become life-threatening. At Stillwater Life Services, we offer free, limited ultrasounds to help determine your pregnancy’s location.
- Know Your Risk Factors: Be aware of your risk factors of ectopic pregnancy and discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and monitor your pregnancy more closely if needed.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Furthermore, quitting smoking can significantly improve your reproductive health.
- Seek Prompt Medical Attention: If you suspect an ectopic pregnancy, do not delay seeking medical help. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
You’re Not Alone
Navigating an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone in this. At Stillwater Life Services, we’re here for you.
Contact us today to schedule your free, limited ultrasound and have your questions answered. We care about your health and well-being.