It is a pregnancy that develops outside of a woman's uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. Normally, a fertilized egg implants in the uterus and grows there, ectopic pregnancy This process is reversed during pregnancy. The fallopian tube is a tube-shaped organ that connects the ovary to the uterus. A pregnancy that develops here can cause the tube to rupture and cause serious health problems that can be life-threatening.
Types of Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy It develops in the fallopian tube, but rarely it can also occur in the ovaries, abdominal cavity or cervical region of the uterus. Pregnancies that develop outside the fallopian tube are much rarer. However, if not diagnosed early, this condition can become more dangerous.
Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms
The symptoms can be similar to those of a normal pregnancy, but they usually include more severe pain and bleeding as warning signs. ectopic pregnancy, may not occur in the same way in every woman. One of the early symptoms may be severe pain in the lower abdomen and discomfort in the pelvic area. This pain is usually one-sided and may become more severe over time. Bleeding is rare in normal pregnancies, but vaginal bleeding may occur in this pregnancy.
This bleeding is usually brownish in color and can be light at times. If the fallopian tube ruptures, internal bleeding can occur. This can cause the woman to faint. Severe abdominal pain and a drop in blood pressure can also occur. Dizziness and weakness can occur, especially in cases of internal bleeding. Severe bleeding can lead to fluid loss in the body, which can affect the person's general condition.
How is Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made by a doctor through a pelvic examination, blood tests and ultrasound imaging. It is important to monitor the levels of the pregnancy hormone HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) in blood tests. In a normal pregnancy, this hormone level increases rapidly. However, ectopic pregnancy During pregnancy, levels can often remain at lower levels. If no gestational sac is seen in the uterus with ultrasound, the doctor examines the fallopian tubes. This is to confirm the presence of the condition. In addition, some additional blood tests performed in line with suspicion can strengthen the diagnosis.
Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition and the stage of pregnancy. In pregnancies diagnosed early, treatment can usually be done with medication. However, in some cases, surgery may be required. Methotrexate, ectopic pregnancy It is the most common drug used to treat pregnancy. Methotrexate stops the development of pregnancy by destroying the fertilized egg and placenta.
Drug treatment can only be used if the pregnancy is still small and the fallopian tube is not damaged. If it is advanced and the tube has ruptured, surgical intervention is necessary. This can be done by laparoscopy (closed method) or by a larger incision. If the fallopian tube is damaged, the tube can be removed. However, in some cases, the pregnancy material can be removed while preserving the tube.
Ectopic Pregnancy Risk Factors
Some women ectopic pregnancy are at higher risk for. Sexually transmitted diseases increase the risk by affecting the fallopian tubes. Women who have had this condition before are at higher risk of having the same condition in their next pregnancy.
Surgery on the fallopian tubes can cause blockage or damage to the tubes. Women over the age of 35 are at higher risk. Smoking can negatively affect the health of the fallopian tubes and ectopic pregnancy may increase the risk.
Ectopic Pregnancy and Future Pregnancies
Most women who experience this condition can recover with appropriate treatment and have a healthy pregnancy in the years to come. However, ectopic pregnancy, can be a risk factor for women. More care should be taken in future pregnancies. Regular check-ups and doctor follow-up are recommended. As a result, it can be managed successfully when diagnosed and treated early. Therefore, it is extremely important for women to consult their doctors when symptoms are noticed.
