Ectopic pregnancies

What is an ectopic pregnancy?

When a woman becomes pregnant, the ova (egg) is fertilized by the sperm and this fertilized egg should implant itself into the uterus lining. Occasionally, the egg is fertilized and then implants too early – while still in the fallopian tube or even in tissue outside of the uterus itself. This happens in about 20 out of every 1000 pregnancies in North America, according to the American Association of Family Physicians.

More than 95% of ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tube, 1.5% in the abdomen, and the rest in the ovary or cervix. As the placenta tries to attach itself to the surrounding tissue, the area can rupture and cause internal hemorrhage or bleeding. This can lead to death.

What are the signs and symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?

• Vaginal bleeding
• Low back pain
• Cramping
• Severe, sharp, sudden pain in the abdominal area
• Lightheadedness or fainting

An ectopic pregnancy is an emergency. Don’t take any chances if you feel this is what you have.

Image: Newscom 

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