The effects of an ectopic pregnancy are vast and tragic. Even the loss of an unviable pregnancy can be devastating. Furthermore, an ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening for the mother. Depending on how early you find out that your pregnancy is ectopic, your future fertility may be in jeopardy due to the damage this occurrence inflicts on your reproductive organs, typically your fallopian tubes. This article will help you understand the different facts of ectopic pregnancy.

When a fertilized egg implants itself anywhere other than the uterine cavity, this is called an ectopic pregnancy. One in every 50 pregnancies is an ectopic pregnancy, nearly invariably located within one of the fallopian tubes. Your reproductive anatomy outside the uterus, including your fallopian tubes, is not meant to sustain a pregnancy. The pregnancy is viable since the embryo will not grow or develop; hence it must be terminated to prevent a disastrous health outcome.

The major signs that can indicate an ectopic pregnancy:

• Mild vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are the most common early indicators of an ectopic pregnancy.
• Shoulder pain or the need to use the restroom are symptoms of blood leaking from a ruptured fallopian tube.
• Irritation while attempting to relieve oneself. It could hurt if you have to go to the bathroom. Diarrhea is also a possibility. UTIs and stomach bugs can induce symptoms similar to the natural changes in bladder and bowel habits during pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy bowel symptoms can also be an ideal way to identify an ectopic pregnancy.

The different causes and risk factors that can lead to ectopic pregnancy:

The most frequent form of ectopic pregnancy is a fallopian tube pregnancy when a fertilized egg becomes stuck in the fallopian tube due to inflammation or an abnormality in the tube’s morphology. Alterations in hormone levels or aberrant embryonic development could potentially play an impact.

Major risk factors:

History of ectopic pregnancy:

If you have experienced this type of pregnancy previously, you are more likely to experience it again.

Inflammation or infection:

• Sexually transmitted illnesses, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, can increase the chance of ectopic pregnancy by causing inflammation in the fallopian tubes and other adjacent organs.
• And many more, like undergoing tubal surgery; smoking can be the cause of ectopic pregnancy. 

5 major facts about ectopic pregnancy that every woman should know:

Even though most women are familiar with ectopic pregnancy, some facts are still not widely understood. Unfortunately, myths and misunderstandings accompany these types of pregnancy events and frequently contribute to the sadness and bewilderment associated with ectopic pregnancy. Here are five important facts concerning this condition:

Ectopic pregnancy can mimic a normal pregnancy:

Due to the presence of the pregnancy hormone hCG, your pregnancy test will be positive. You will also encounter several early pregnancy symptoms. However, fetal survival in an ectopic pregnancy is exceedingly unusual. Continuing with the pregnancy will likely damage the mother’s overall health and future fertility, as well as the eventual loss of the pregnancy.

An ectopic pregnancy can be identified only through an ultrasound:

In most obstetrical practices, ultrasounds are conducted between 6 and 8 weeks following a positive pregnancy test. If you haven’t had any symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy, you may not realize you have one until it’s too late.

The signs of an ectopic pregnancy are usually painful:

If you suspect you are pregnant, you will experience various uncomfortable physical symptoms while your body adjusts. The ectopic pregnancy pain signs are notably distinct and excruciating. Strong stomach or pelvic pains that escalate with movement, weakness, flu-like symptoms, and vaginal bleeding indicate something is wrong. If you experience any of these symptoms and feel you may be pregnant, get medical attention immediately.

Surgery is the only option to treat ectopic pregnancy:

In actuality, surgery is frequently a last resort. If the ectopic pregnancy is detected early enough, your doctor may monitor you and use a technique known as “expectant management.” Your doctor uses blood tests to monitor your hCG levels to see if your pregnancy is normally ending. As long as your physician properly monitors you, this sort of ectopic pregnancy treatment is safe. 

Additionally, there are drugs utilized to treat ectopic pregnancy. If surgery becomes essential, there are surgical procedures that can protect your fallopian tube to some extent. To preserve a mother’s life in a dire situation, it may be necessary to employ more advanced techniques.

An ectopic pregnancy doesn’t mean you’re infertile:

If an ectopic pregnancy resulted in removing your fallopian tube, conceiving would be more difficult, but even with one fallopian tube, you have a 50% chance of becoming pregnant. Before your future pregnancy, it is recommended that you consult with your gynecologist or an infertility expert at the best pregnancy care hospital in Coimbatore due to your increased risk of a second ectopic pregnancy.

Don’t wait before its too long to confirm your suspicions:

If you are experiencing an ectopic pregnancy, get medical attention immediately. For your peace of mind, you should consult with your obstetrician. If your pregnancy is ectopic, you must get treatment immediately. Your life and future fertility are contingent upon prompt action.

If you have previously had an ectopic pregnancy and are pregnant again, assume it is another ectopic unless proven otherwise. Call your health care practitioner immediately following a positive pregnancy test, and ensure that you are well monitored and the pregnancy is documented.