What is Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the inner lining of the uterus. The most common site for an ectopic pregnancy is the fallopian tube, but it can also occur in the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix. Since these areas are not designed to support a growing pregnancy, ectopic pregnancies cannot proceed normally and can pose serious health risks if not treated promptly.
Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy may include:
Missed periods
Vaginal bleeding that may be light or heavy
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain, often on one side
Shoulder pain or rectal pressure (in case of internal bleeding)
If the ectopic pregnancy ruptures, it can lead to severe internal bleeding, shock, and is considered a medical emergency
Management of Ectopic Pregnancy depends on the timing of diagnosis, symptoms, and stability of the patient:
Surgical Treatment
Laparoscopy is the gold standard for both diagnosis and treatment.
Laparoscopic Salpingotomy: A conservative procedure where an incision is made in the fallopian tube to remove the ectopic pregnancy while preserving the tube. This is preferred in unruptured ectopic pregnancies.
Laparoscopic Salpingectomy: The fallopian tube is completely removed, usually done in cases of ruptured ectopic pregnancy or severely damaged tube.
Medical Treatment
In selected stable cases with early diagnosis, medications like methotrexate may be used to stop the growth of the pregnancy tissue and allow the body to absorb it naturally.
Laparoscopic Salpingotomy
This minimally invasive procedure involves making a small incision in the fallopian tube to extract the ectopic pregnancy. The tube is then carefully repaired to preserve its function, which can be important for future fertility. This method is typically used in cases where the ectopic pregnancy is unruptured and the patient is stable.
