A pregnancy that develops outside the uterus (womb) is called an ectopic pregnancy. The most common site for an ectopic pregnancy is the fallopian tube (the tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus). The ovary, cervix (bottom of the uterus), or abdominal cavity may also be a site. The uterus was designed as the site for developing babies, which can accommodate the growth of the baby. An ectopic pregnancy cannot accommodate the growth of the baby without causing harm to the mother and the baby.
Symptoms may include:
A missed period
Heavy or light spotting
Lower abdominal pain, mild to severe
Dizziness or faintness
Cramps
What your doctor can do:
Diagnose an ectopic pregnancy by doing a pelvic exam, pregnancy test, and ultrasound
A laparotomy (open surgery to find or explore the ectopic pregnancy) may be needed before a definite diagnosis can be made
The only treatment is removal of the ectopic pregnancy. This requires a surgical procedure called a laparoscopy (insertion of a small telescope-like instrument through an incision).
What you can expect:
You will need to rest for several days following the surgery. It is possible that you will feel close to normal within a few days.
If the fallopian tube ruptured, you may be very ill for a period of time.
Complications that can arise with a ruptured tube may include: internal bleeding, infection, shock, or loss of reproductive ability.
Contact your doctor -
If you are pregnant and experience symptoms that could indicate an ectopic pregnancy:
Fever or chills
Headache
Dizziness
Heavy spotting/bleeding
If you have had surgery for an ectopic pregnancy and experience:
Symptoms of infection (fever; foul drainage from the incision site)
Pain not controlled by medication prescribed
Any unexpected or worsening symptoms
