Ectopic Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

• 1-2% of natural conceptions result in ectopic pregnancies.

• 4% of pregnancies conceived via assisted reproductive technology (ART) are ectopic.

• 6% of maternal deaths in the first trimester are caused by ectopic pregnancies if left undiagnosed or untreated.

• Many cases come as a surprise, turning the joy of pregnancy into a medical emergency. Ruptured ectopic pregnancies can lead to internal bleeding, shock, and even death.

• With increased awareness and advanced diagnostic tools, early detection has reduced severe complications.

More than 90% of ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tubes, but they can also occur in other locations:

• Fallopian Tube (most common)

• Ovary

• Previous Cesarean Scar

• Heterotopic Pregnancy (one pregnancy inside the uterus, another outside)

• Abdominal Pregnancy (very rare)

Several risk factors increase the chances of ectopic pregnancy:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) (including tuberculosis or sexually transmitted infections)

• Multiple Sexual Partners

• Infertility

• Age (higher risk if under 18 or over 35)

• Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)

• Previous Ectopic Pregnancy

• Tobacco Smoking

• Endometriosis

• Tubal Ligation or recanalisation Surgery

• Use of an Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Early Symptoms:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Dizziness

• Occasional lower abdominal pain

• Vaginal spotting or irregular bleeding

Symptoms of Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy:

• Severe lower abdominal pain

• Abdominal distension
• Internal bleeding (can lead to shock and fainting)

Ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed using:

• Clinical Examination by a gynecologist

• Urine Pregnancy Test

• Ultrasound (to detect pregnancy location and signs of rupture)
• Serial Beta-hCG Blood Tests (to monitor pregnancy hormone levels)

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Approach:

• Watchful Waiting: If detected early, doctors may monitor beta-hCG levels before intervening.

• Medical Management: Methotrexate injections stop fetal cell growth. Patients require hospital monitoring for any complications.

Surgical Approach:

• Laparoscopy (Minimally Invasive Surgery) – Gold standard for treatment

• Tiny incisions are made on the abdomen.

• Carbon dioxide gas inflates the abdomen for better visibility.

• A laparoscope (camera-equipped instrument) guides the procedure.

• The ectopic pregnancy is removed with minimal scarring and faster recovery.

• Laparotomy (Open Surgery):

• Used in emergency cases with severe internal bleeding.

• Requires a larger abdominal incision (8-9 cm).

Types of Surgeries:

• Salpingotomy/Salpingostomy (Preserving the fallopian tube)

• Salpingectomy (Removal of the affected tube)

Diet:

• Liquids can be started 6 hours post-surgery.

Mobilization:

• Patients can start walking 4 hours after surgery.

Hospital Discharge & Follow-Up:

• Most patients are discharged within 24 hours.

• Follow-up is scheduled 6 days after surgery.

• Shorter hospital stay

• Less post-operative pain

• Minimal scarring (small keyhole incisions)

• Faster recovery compared to open surgery

A ruptured ectopic pregnancy can cause massive internal bleeding and shock. Emergency surgical removal of the pregnancy and damaged fallopian tube is the only life-saving option.

Many women successfully conceive after an ectopic pregnancy. Doctors generally recommend waiting for at least 3 months or 2 menstrual cycles before trying again.

Success Rates:

• 65% of women conceive naturally within 18 months.

• 85% of women conceive within 2 years.

• Success depends on the health of the remaining fallopian tube.

Dr. Dimple Doshi is a highly experienced gynecologist specializing in ectopic pregnancy management. At Vardaan Hospital, Mumbai, she provides:
✅ Expert Diagnosis & Treatment – Advanced ultrasound and laparoscopic techniques for accurate detection and treatment.
✅ Personalized Care – Tailored treatment plans based on individual patient needs.
✅ Minimally Invasive Surgery – Expertise in laparoscopic procedures for faster recovery and minimal scarring.
✅ Comprehensive Women’s Health Services – Holistic care from diagnosis to post-treatment follow-ups.
✅ Trusted & Experienced – Years of experience handling complex gynecological cases with high success rates.

For expert consultation on ectopic pregnancy, visit Dr. Dimple Doshi at Vardaan Hospital, Mumbai.