An ectopic pregnancy is a condition in which a fertilized egg implants and develops outside the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube. Initially, this condition is often mistaken for a normal pregnancy because it can still produce a positive pregnancy test result and early pregnancy symptoms. However, an ectopic pregnancy is an emergency that requires immediate treatment, as it can cause severe, life-threatening bleeding if left untreated.
What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
In a normal pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants in the uterus to develop into a fetus. Meanwhile, in an ectopic pregnancy, implantation occurs outside the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube, although in rare cases it can occur in the ovary, cervix, or abdominal cavity.
Because it's in an inappropriate location, this pregnancy cannot develop normally. If the pregnancy tissue continues to enlarge, the implanted organ risks rupture, causing bleeding within the abdominal cavity, requiring emergency treatment.
Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy
In the early stages, symptoms often resemble those of a normal pregnancy. However, there are a few signs to watch out for:
- Late menstruation accompanied by a positive pregnancy test result.
- Pain or cramping on one side of the lower abdomen or pelvis.
- Bleeding or spotting from the vagina outside of the menstrual cycle.
- Pain in the shoulder due to bleeding in the abdominal cavity.
- Dizziness, weakness, cold sweats, even fainting.
If you experience severe abdominal pain accompanied by bleeding, dizziness, or decreased consciousness, immediately go to the nearest health facility because these conditions can indicate an ectopic pregnancy that has ruptured.
Causes and Risk Factors
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg's journey to the uterus is disrupted, causing implantation outside the uterus. The risk of this condition increases in women who have had an ectopic pregnancy, have a history of infection or inflammation of the reproductive tract, have undergone surgery on the fallopian tubes or pelvis, have endometriosis, have undergone assisted reproductive therapy, or smoke. However, ectopic pregnancies can also occur without any clear risk factors.
Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment
Treatment depends on the patient's condition, gestational age, and the presence or absence of bleeding. In cases diagnosed early and the patient's condition stable, the doctor may prescribe drug therapy to stop the development of the pregnancy tissue. However, if there is a risk of fallopian tube rupture or bleeding has already occurred, surgery is necessary to stop the bleeding and prevent more serious complications.
Don't Delay Pregnancy Check-ups
Every pregnancy should be confirmed early through an examination by an obstetrician and gynecologist (OBGYN), using an ultrasound to confirm the gestational sac is in the uterus. If a positive pregnancy test is accompanied by abdominal pain, bleeding, or other unusual symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications and maintain the mother's health.
This article was written by Dr. Lisa Puspadewi Susanto, Sp.OG, FICS (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).