Ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancies are not viable and must be treated to prevent serious complications. Treatment for ectopic pregnancy can vary depending on the severity of the condition, and typically involves medication or surgery.
Medication Treatment
Medication is the first line of treatment for ectopic pregnancies. The medication used is typically methotrexate, a drug that stops cell growth and can cause the pregnancy to end. Methotrexate is injected intramuscularly and can take several weeks to be effective. Patients will need to be monitored during this time with blood tests and ultrasounds to ensure the ectopic pregnancy is ending as it should.
Surgical Treatment
If medication is not effective or the ectopic pregnancy is too far along to be treated with medication, surgery may be necessary. During a surgical procedure, the doctor will remove the pregnancy from the fallopian tube. This can be done with a laparoscopy, which is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, or with a more invasive procedure, such as a laparotomy. After the procedure, the patient will usually need to be monitored for any possible complications.
Risk Factors
Ectopic pregnancies can be caused by a variety of factors, including pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and previous ectopic pregnancies. Women who have had multiple sexual partners, use an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control, or have a history of infertility are also more at risk for an ectopic pregnancy.
Prevention
The best way to prevent an ectopic pregnancy is to practice safe sex and get regular check-ups and screenings. Women should also be aware of any risk factors that might put them at an increased risk for ectopic pregnancy and take steps to reduce their risk. Early detection and treatment of any underlying conditions can also help lower the risk.