Ectopic pregnancy:
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized ovum grows outside the uterus. Almost all ectopic pregnancies - more than 90% - occur in the fallopian tube. Progress in pregnancy can cause the tube to burst or rupture. This can lead to internal bleeding.
Risk factors:
- Previous pregnancy outside the womb.
- Previous surgery on the fallopian tube.
- Previous pelvic or abdominal surgery.
- Some types of sexually transmitted infections.
- Pelvic inflammation.
- Endometriosis.
Other factors that may increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy include:
- smoking.
- Age over 35 years.
- History of infertility.
- Use of assisted reproductive technology (e.g., artificial insemination).
- Pregnancy while using the IUD to prevent pregnancy, although it is rare, but if pregnancy occurs while using it, it is likely that the pregnancy will be outside the uterus.
Symptoms:
At first, an ectopic pregnancy may look like a normal pregnancy with some of the same signs (such as a missed period, tender breasts, or an upset stomach). Other signs may include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding.
- Low back pain.
- Mild pain in the abdomen or pelvis.
- Mild cramps on one side of the pelvis.
- As the pregnancy grows outside the womb, more serious symptoms may appear. Especially if the fallopian tube ruptures, which is an emergency that requires rapid medical intervention, such as:
- Sudden and severe abdominal or pelvic pain.
- shoulder pain
- Weakness, dizziness or fainting.
When to see a doctor:
When feeling severe and sudden pain, in addition to shoulder pain or general weakness.
reatment:
An ectopic pregnancy cannot spread to the uterus, so it requires treatment either through medication or surgery.