An ectopic pregnancy is a serious health condition that requires immediate medical treatment. It occurs in approximately 1 out of every 50 pregnancies. With an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg doesn’t travel to the uterus as it should, but instead implants itself in one of the fallopian tubes or elsewhere. This usually happens early on in the pregnancy, often before the 8th week. If it’s detected early, treatments can be administered that can help prevent life-threatening blood loss and preserve the chance for a future safe pregnancy.
The common Ectopic pregnancy symptoms are as given below:
Dizziness or weakness
Light vaginal bleeding
Pain in shoulder, rectum and neck
Nausea and vomiting
Pain on one side of the body
Sharp abdominal cramps
Lower abdominal pain
If you experience any of the following symptoms, please contact your doctor right away. Time is of the essence when it comes to preserving your fertility and reducing the risk of severe bleeding, so emergency treatment is essential.
The Risk factors of Ectopic Pregnancy
A woman who experiences any of the above-mentioned pregnancy symptoms is at risk for developing complications such as:
-A congenital abnormality that could cause problems during childbirth
-The use of an intrauterine device (UID) for birth control at the time of conception
-Fertility issues
History of Ectopic pregnancy
Infertility treatment such as in vitro fertilization (IVF)
Ectopic pregnancy symptoms can seem like a normal pregnancy at first, with symptoms like missed period, nausea and breast tenderness. However, things will start to look abnormal when you begin experiencing light vaginal bleeding, abdominal and pelvic pain. If the ectopic pregnancy occurs in the cervix or fallopian tube, you may experience heavy vaginal bleeding, followed by fainting, lightheadedness and shock.
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk factors. If you’ve had an ectopic pregnancy in the past, be sure to talk to your doctor before conceiving again. Early blood tests and ultrasounds can help detect if another ectopic pregnancy is developing or if the pregnancy is progressing normally.
Losing your pregnancy can be devastating, but try to take solace in the fact that it may have happened for a reason. Talk to your friends and family for support in coming to terms with the loss and moving on. You may also want to seek out help from a support group or counselor who can help you grieve in a healthy way and prepare for the future.
If you get diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy, don’t worry – your physician will initiate the treatment that best suits your condition and health status. They will also take into consideration your future plans for pregnancy when deciding on a treatment plan.
