Ectopic Pregnancy Causes and Symptoms

• 13/05/2024
• 0

Ectopic Pregnancy Causes and Symptoms – Pregnancy begins with a fertilized egg. Normally, the fertilized implants to the lining of the uterus.  But an Ectopic Pregnancy happens outside of the uterus. In an ectopic pregnancy a fertilized egg implants, most commonly in the fallopian tube. (The fallopian tube is a structure that connects the ovaries and uterus). The fallopian tube isn’t meant to clench a growing embryo. More rarely Ectopic pregnancies can occur in the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix (connecting to vagina). In such situations, Pregnancies can’t be continued because only the uterus is meant to carry a pregnancy otherwise the growing tissue may cause life-threatening bleeding.

What are the causes of Ectopic Pregnancy?

Blocking the passage of the egg down to the fallopian tube causes ectopic pregnancy. Several factors are responsible for the development of an ectopic pregnancy:

• Scar tissue from previous surgeries, such as cesarean section or appendectomy, can prevent the normal movement of a fertilized egg through the fallopian tube, increasing the risk of an ectopic pregnancy
• Infections of the reproductive organs, particularly sexually transmitted infections, can cause inflammation and damage to the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for the fertilized egg to pass through to the uterus
• Vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technologies can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, mainly due to factors such as the transfer of multiple embryos or abnormalities in the fallopian tubes
• Congenital abnormalities, irregular shapes, or structural defects in the fallopian tubes can hinder the movement of the egg, leading to ectopic pregnancy

What are the Symptoms of Ectopic pregnancy?

The early symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy are similar to normal pregnancies. However, after a short period, one may experience additional symptoms during an ectopic pregnancy, including:

• Abdominal or Pelvic pain: This pain may range from mild to severe and may be localised on one side of the abdomen or pelvis. It might come and go or be constant.
• Vaginal Bleeding: Light vaginal bleeding may occur, which can be mistaken for a normal menstrual period. In some cases, the bleeding may be heavier or more irregular.
• Weakness or Dizziness: This can be caused severely by blood loss which can cause low blood pressure.

What in case the Fallopian Tube ruptures:

The pain and bleeding get severe enough to cause additional symptoms. These can include: 

• Shoulder Pain: This occurs if there is internal bleeding from a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, which irritates the diaphragm and causes referred pain to the shoulder.
• Lightheadedness or Fainting: This can occur due to heavy internal bleeding in the abdomen, which should be treated immediately otherwise it would be life-threatening.
• Rectal Pressure: Some women may experience pressure or discomfort in the rectum or urge to have a bowel movement.

Where does an Ectopic Pregnancy happen?

An ectopic pregnancy takes place when a fertilized egg implants in the outer layer of the uterus. The egg must travel down the fallopian tubes and attach itself to the wall of your uterus where it can develop. But In an ectopic pregnancy, the egg implants itself in the structure’s way. The most common place of this can happen is inside the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancies are very rare it occurs in about 2% of all pregnancies.

Types of Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancies can occur in various locations outside of the uterus, though the vast majority occur in the fallopian tubes. The types of ectopic pregnancy depend on where the fertilized egg implants are. Here are the main types:

1. Tubal ectopic pregnancy: This is the most common type of ectopic pregnancy. It occurs when the fertilized egg implants in one of the fallopian tubes, typically because the tube is blocked or damaged.
2. Ovarian ectopic pregnancy:  An ectopic pregnancy is characterized by the implantation and development of an embryo outside of the uterine cavity.
3. Cervical ectopic pregnancy: This occurs when the egg implants in the lining of the endocervical canal. It is rare but can be very dangerous due to the risk of severe bleeding.
4. Abdominal ectopic pregnancy: In this type the developing embryo implants and grows within the peritoneal cavity.
5. Cornual or interstitial ectopic pregnancy: This occurs when the fertilized egg implants in the horn of the uterus, where the fallopian tube meets the uterine cavity.

Prevention of Ectopic Pregnancy

There is no prevention step for ectopic pregnancy. One can lower the risk of ectopic pregnancy by limiting the sexual partners and using condoms during sex. It is important to maintain good sexual health and weight management. Moreover, STIs may lead to ectopic pregnancy, so it is highly advisable to take precautions before any sexual activity. 

Conclusion

Dr. Ruchi Rai Ahuja is an experienced & best gynaecologist in Chandigarh. She specializes in pregnancies (or issues related to pregnancies), breast diseases, and women’s infertility. She is a Senior Consultant and Director Consultant at Dr Ahuja Clinic located in Chandigarh. Dr. Ruchi has PHD in Gyane Care. She understands the complications and seriousness that one is going through and along with the medical support, she braces the patients emotionally as well.