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Ectopic Pregnancy(Tubal Pregnancy)DefinitionAn ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that grows in a location other than the lining of the uterus. Most ectopic pregnancies (95%) occur within a fallopian tube. Rare locations include on the cervix, in the abdomen, or on an ovary. An ectopic pregnancy cannot survive because only the uterus can support the growth of a fetus and its placenta. If an ectopic pregnancy bursts a fallopian tube, it is a medical emergency that threatens the life of the mother due to hemorrhage in the abdomen. Ectopic pregnancies occur with a frequency of 1 in 100-200 diagnosed pregnancies. Ectopic Pregnancy  © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. Risk FactorsA risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors include:
SymptomsSymptoms include:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be performed. Tests may include:
TreatmentTreatment includes: MedicationIf diagnosed while the ectopic pregnancy is still small and has not ruptured, methotrexate (a form of chemotherapy) can be given to some patients to prevent further growth of the ectopic pregnancy and avoid surgery. SurgeryEmergency surgery is needed if:
This surgery can be done through a laparoscope or an open abdominal incision. During the surgery, the pregnancy will be removed. If possible, the doctor will repair your fallopian tube. In some severe cases, the fallopian tube may need to be completely removed. If you are diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy, follow your doctor's instructions . PrognosisAbout 50-85% of the women who have experienced one ectopic pregnancy are later able to achieve a normal pregnancy. A subsequent ectopic pregnancy may occur in 10-20% of cases. Infertility occurs in a high percentage of women who have experienced an ectopic pregnancy. Often these women can be helped by an infertility specialist. The maternal death rate from an ectopic pregnancy in the US has decreased in the last 30 years to less than 0.1%. RESOURCES: American Academy of Family Physicians American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists CANADIAN RESOURCES: The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada Women's Health Matters References: Conn HF, Rakel RE, Bope ET. Conn's Current Therapy 2001. 53rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Company; 2001. Daiter E. Ectopic pregnancy: overview. OBGYN.net website. Available at: http://www.obgyn.net/pb/cotm/9902/9902.htm . Accessed July 8, 2009. Ectopic pregancy. The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy website. Available at: http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec18/ch263/ch263e.html#sec18-ch263-ch263e-1356 . Updated November 2005. Accessed July 8, 2009. Ectopic pregnancy. Planned Parenthood Ectopic Pregnancy website. Available at: http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/pregnancy/ectopic-pregnancy-4259.htm . Accessed July 8, 2009. Tenore JL. Ectopic Pregnancy. Am Fam Physician . 2000;61(4):1080-1088. Last reviewed September 2009 by Ganson Purcell Jr., MD, FACOG, FACPE Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2009 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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