Ectopic pregnancy is defined as a pregnancy in which the fetus develops outside the uterus. It occurs commonly in one of the narrow tubes that connect each ovary to the uterus, the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancy may also occur in the ovary or outside the reproductive organs in the abdominal cavity or the cervix. Ectopic pregnancy occurs in 1 and 100. People who have had a previous ectopic pregnancy are at a increased risk of developing this disorder, again.
Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg from the ovary becomes implanted outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. As the fetus develops, the fallopian tube stretches and ruptures, causing life-threatening internal bleeding.
Signs and Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy
Early stages of ectopic pregnancy may be difficult to distinguish from normal uterine pregnancy. There are missed menstrual periods or menstrual irregularity. Sometime after that there may be unexplained vaginal spotting or bleeding, lower abdominal pain and cramps. Later stages of ectopic pregnancy often reflect rupture of the area of pregnancy. This can lead to abdominal or pelvic bleeding. The symptoms include sudden, sharp lower abdominal pain caused by rupture of the fallopian tube. Bleeding in the abdomen may lead to shock. This produces pallor, rapid heart rate, light-headedness and dizziness. There may be abdominal swelling. Generalized abdominal pain develops as bleeding spreads in the abdominal cavity. Irritation of the diaphragm can lead to pain felt in the shoulders.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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