Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic Pregnancy is a medical condition where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. This condition is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Causes

The exact cause of Ectopic Pregnancy is unknown, but several factors have been associated with an increased risk. These include previous ectopic pregnancy, inflammation or infection of the fallopian tube, fertility treatments, and smoking.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy usually appear between the 4th and 12th week of pregnancy. They may include abdominal or pelvic pain, light vaginal bleeding, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Diagnosis

Ectopic Pregnancy is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, ultrasound, and blood tests. The blood tests measure the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy.

Treatment

Treatment options for ectopic pregnancy include medication, surgery, or occasionally, observation. The choice of treatment depends on the location of the ectopic pregnancy, the woman's symptoms, and her overall health.

Prevention

While it's not always possible to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, there are steps that can reduce the risk. These include avoiding risk factors such as smoking and sexually transmitted infections, and seeking prompt treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease.

See Also

• Pregnancy
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Fallopian Tube

References

Ectopic Pregnancy Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia