What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

Most women associate a missed period with pregnancy. Although dozens of factors can affect menstruation, it is normal to assume that if you are sexually active and you miss a period, pregnancy is a very real possibility.

What if other symptoms accompany your missed period, though, and they are not necessarily the early symptoms of pregnancy? If your missed period is accompanied by abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding that is either lighter or heavier than your normal menstruation, it could be indicative of an ectopic pregnancy.

During conception, sperm fertilizes the egg in the fallopian tube. The fetus then travels to the uterus, where it begins to develop.

If the egg does not make it to the uterus and begins growing in the fallopian tube, ovary, cervix, or somewhere else in the pelvic region instead, it is called an ectopic pregnancy. According to WebMD, approximately 50 percent of women with an ectopic pregnancy will experience the three main symptoms, which are a missed period, abdominal pain, and irregular vaginal bleeding.

If you think you are suffering from an ectopic pregnancy, you need to seek immediate medical attention. If left untreated, the developing fetus can rupture the fallopian tube, which could cause severe bleeding and life-threatening complications.

If you think you have an ectopic pregnancy, turn to Women’s Pelvic Surgery of North Jersey, LLC for compassionate care. Dr. Shakiba will assess your reproductive health in order to diagnose and treat the cause of your vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. Call 201-301-2772 to make an appointment.

Why Do Ectopic Pregnancies Occur?

According to the American Pregnancy Association, ectopic pregnancies occur in approximately 1 out of 50 pregnancies. There are several possible causes of the condition, including:

• Inflammation in the fallopian tube, which can result in a blockage;
• Scar tissue from prior infections or procedures impeding the egg’s progress to the uterus;
• Adhesions in the pelvic area from prior gynecological procedures blocking the egg’s path; and
• Abnormal growths or birth defects that affect the shape of the fallopian tube.

Are Some Women More Likely to Suffer an Ectopic Pregnancy Than Others?

Although anyone can technically suffer an ectopic pregnancy, there are certain risk factors that make some women more likely than others to experience one. Risk factors include:

• A maternal age of at least 35 years old;
• Previous abdominal surgery;
• Pelvic inflammatory disease;
• A history of induced abortions;
• Smoking;
• Endometriosis; and
• Undergoing fertility treatments.

How Do You Treat an Ectopic Pregnancy?

The most effective treatment for each woman depends on the circumstances of her case. Possible ways to treat en ectopic pregnancy include medication that facilitates the body’s absorption of the pregnancy tissue and laparoscopic surgery to remove the pregnancy and repair the affected fallopian tube.

If you and your spouse are trying to conceive but you are concerned about your risk of suffering an ectopic pregnancy, turn to Women’s Pelvic Surgery of North Jersey, LLC for a full assessment of your reproductive health. Dr. Shakiba is a certified robotic surgeon who has performed hundreds of successful robotic assisted surgeries. Call 201-301-2772 to make an appointment today!