What is Ectopic Pregnancy?

Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the main cavity of the uterus. Ectopic pregnancy most often occurs in the fallopian tube, which carries eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.

A Tubal Pregnancy

The most common type of ectopic pregnancy – occurs when a fertilized egg gets stuck in its path to the uterus, often because the fallopian tubes become damaged or misshapen by inflammation.

Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms

Often, the first warning signs of ectopic pregnancy are light vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. If blood leaks from the fallopian tube, you may feel pain in the shoulder or the urge to have a bowel movement.

Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosis

An ectopic pregnancy is usually diagnosed by performing a transvaginal ultrasound scan. This involves inserting a small probe into your vagina.

Ectopic Pregnancy Surgery

Salpingostomy and salpingectomy are two laparoscopic surgeries that are used to treat some ectopic pregnancies. In this procedure, a small incision is made in the abdomen, near or in the navel.

Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants itself and grows outside the main cavity of the uterus.

Ectopic Pregnancy Medicine

An early ectopic pregnancy without intermittent bleeding is often treated with a drug called methotrexate, which stops cell growth and dissolves existing cells.