An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg does not attached inside the uterus but attaches to a location outside of the uterus, typically an area such as the fallopian tube. Possible causes of an ectopic pregnancy include existing scar tissue, prior surgeries in the pelvis region, or infection of the fallopian tubes.
Signs & symptoms:
Pelvic area pain
Weakness
Vaginal bleeding
Dizziness
If symptoms left untreated, can lead to internal bleeding
To truly diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, a doctor must diagnose. The doctor will conduct certain tests to come to this diagnosis. These tests may include a pelvic exam, ultrasound (aids in finding an image of the fetus) and lab/blood work to check for pregnancy hormone levels.
All treatment options will unfortunately terminate the pregnancy as an ectopic pregnancy leaves the fetus in an unviable situation, left untreated, this can lead to very dangerous medical situations for the mom.
Treatment options:
Methotrexate (injection)
Laparoscopy (surgery)
Laparotomy (surgery)
200,000 per year in the United States
1/50 pregnancies
Risk Factors:
Women ages mid 30’s to 40’s
Prior ectopic pregnancy
Previous surgeries in pelvic region
History of smoking
Endometriosis
Support:
http://stillbirthday.com/2011/07/25/ectopic-pregnancy/
Ectopic Pregnancy Awareness
Ectopic Pregnancy Support
Ectopic Loss Support Group
Ectopic Pregnancy Support Group
Further Research:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK132777/
ACOG Research
http://www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/development/manuals/O&G_guidelines/sectionc/9/c9.4.2.pdf