Ectopic Pregnancy: What are the symptoms and treatment process?

Although a rare medical phenomenon, ectopic pregnancies can invite tremendous hazards to the patient's life. Here, the matured egg released from the ovary implants itself outside the uterus, commonly in the fallopian tube. But unlike the uterus, the fallopian tube is incapable of holding a growing foetus, thus enhancing the chances of its rupture and severe bleeding. However, timely diagnosis and effective ectopic pregnancy treatment can prevent the risk of fatalities.

Besides, a study conducted in India between 2017 and 2020 suggests the success rate of managing extra-uterine pregnancies through medication was 90.2%. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8926047/) That is why proper identification is necessary to nip the problem in the bud. Of course, ectopic pregnancy can affect you psychologically because of the tremendous physical pain and loss of pregnancy. Worry not! Chances of having a normal pregnancy are high-up to 80%, even if the previous one happened outside the uterus. Here are some vital symptoms that call for immediate medical attention:

·        Unusual vaginal bleeding.

·        Cramps in the belly and pelvis area, coupled with low back pain.

·        Weakness and dizzy feeling.

Further, if you suffer from an ectopic rupture, you might face acute pelvic pain, typically on one side. Symptoms might also include low blood pressure, extreme shoulder pain, heavy vaginal bleeding and fainting, in which case you will require emergency medical assistance.

Pregnancy outside the uterus: Effective treatment for a speedy recovery!

As an embryo can only develop inside the uterus, removing the ectopic tissue can successfully avoid medical complications. Your doctor will follow the below-mentioned process to ensure the best ectopic pregnancy treatment:

·        Diagnosis: Once you consult an expert healthcare professional, they might recommend various blood tests, urine tests and USG to examine the issue correctly. The urine test will clarify your pregnancy but cannot assure whether or not it is ectopic. That is why your doctor will rely on the Human Chronic Gonadotropin (HCG) test to check your hormonal level. Usually, women have high hormone levels during pregnancy, and a drop in the level might indicate that the pregnancy is extra-uterine. Nonetheless, a transvaginal USG will drive the final confirmation, enabling the gynaecologist to see the exact location of the pregnancy.

·        Medication: If your doctor recognises the ectopic pregnancy at an early stage, they might treat you with Methotrexate. This medication is given as an injection and can effectively prevent cell growth or dissolve the existing cells to eliminate fatal extra-uterine pregnancy.

·        Surgery: In serious cases like fallopian rupture, emergency surgery is imperative to save the mother's life. Often the issue is treated through a laparoscopic surgery or abdominal incision. Considering your health situation or the amount of bleeding, your surgeon may opt for Salpingostomy or Salpingectomy laparoscopic surgery. Under a Salpingostomy surgery, your surgeon will remove the ectopic pregnancy, leaving the tube to heal. Alternatively, if the fallopian tube show signs of prior damage, your doctor might choose Salpingectomy to remove both the pregnancy and the tube.

Conclusion

An extra-uterine pregnancy is a complex issue. Hence, you must be in safe hands to evade potential health-related risk and guarantee swift recovery. Rest assured! The renowned healthcare organisations will help you connect with highly-experienced medical professionals and start your treatment as quickly as possible. Visit their official website and submit the enquiry form to book a consultation.