Ectopic pregnancy
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - O00
What is ectopic pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo begins to develop outside the uterus. In the vast majority of cases, the fetus does not survive and, if not removed, it canthere may be damage to nearby organs and pose a life-threatening risk to the mother.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, and nausea. Often, the growth of the embryo damages body structures, such as the fallopian tube, which can result in a fatal hemorrhage.
Causes
Some causes of ectopic pregnancy include: Inflammation or injury to the fallopian tubes, history of pelvic inflammatory disease, smoking and age over 35 years.
Diagnosis
Ectopic pregnancy is usually identified through clinical history, pregnancy testing, and transvaginal ultrasound.
Prevention Method
Many cases of ectopic pregnancy are not preventable. However, quitting smoking and consulting a healthcare professional may help reduce the risk.
Treatment
Medications that stop the development of the embryo can be used in ectopic pregnancy. In more advanced pregnancies, the placenta and fetus are often removed through surgery.
Duration
If not discovered and interrupted early, the duration of an ectopic pregnancy can reach a few months, depending on the location of the embryo.
Is it contagious?
Ectopic pregnancy is not contagious.
Can it happen more than once?
Ectopic pregnancy can happen more than once.