How to Diagnose an Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is either when an embryo implants in one of the fallopian tubes (this is the most common type), ovaries, cervix or other abdominal organ instead of the uterus. In fact, "ectopic" means "out of place." An ectopic pregnancy is a very scary pregnancy complication. If you have an ectopic pregnancy, it must be attended to immediately, as the condition can be life threatening.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Realize when an ectopic pregnancy is most likely to happen. Ectopic pregnancies usually occur within the first few weeks of pregnancy. A physician may not discover an ectopic pregnancy later than the seventh or eighth week of pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies account for about 2% of all pregnancies.
2. Understand the risk factors for an ectopic pregnancy. Conditions such as STDs, pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis may lead to ectopic pregnancies if not treated; damaged fallopian tubes may also cause an ectopic pregnancy. Unsuccessful tubal ligation ("tying your tubes"), fertility drugs, in vitro fertilization, the use of an IUD (intrauterine device) and a history of ectopic pregnancies or pelvic surgery can all increase your odds of having an ectopic pregnancy.
3. Know the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy. These may include vaginal bleeding, nausea and vomiting, lower abdominal pain and cramps, pain only occurring on one side of the body, dizziness, weakness, fainting and pain in the rectum, neck or shoulders. Should you experience any of these symptoms, particularly early in your pregnancy, call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room. Do not delay treatment for an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy can cause severe blood loss for you. You may also experience impaired future fertility.
4. Undergo treatment for an ectopic pregnancy. If a fallopian tube has ruptured, you will require surgery to stop the hemorrhaging. Some physicians remove the ovary and/or the fallopian tube depending upon the extent of the rupture. If the tube has not ruptured, a physician will use laparoscopic surgery to remove the embryo and fix the fallopian tube. Usually with this type of surgery, the function of the fallopian tube is not affected. Some physicians prescribe medication to keep the pregnancy from progressing further if the fallopian tube has not ruptured and the pregnancy is in its infancy.
5. Recover after an ectopic pregnancy. Wait a few months before trying to conceive another child. Even for fallopian tube removal, future pregnancies are possible as long as the other tube functions properly. Give yourself time to grieve for your ectopic pregnancy.