What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy is used to describe the condition that occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the main cavity of the uterus and begins to develop there. As it is known, pregnancy always begins with a fertilized egg. An ectopic pregnancy is also defined as an ectopic pregnancy and does not progress at a normal level. Since the fertilized egg cannot survive outside the uterus, this tissue, which continues to develop for a while, may cause life-threatening bleeding if not treated.
Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy
The most common cause of ectopic pregnancy is tubal pregnancy. This type of ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fallopian tube is damaged and misshapen due to inflammation. There are many factors that cause the risk of developing an ectopic pregnancy. Women with a previous ectopic pregnancy have a higher risk of encountering the same conditions again.
Infection of the fallopian tubes is the main cause of ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea or chlamydia can cause inflammation. Disruptions in the shape of the fallopian tube as a result of this inflammation can also increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Surgery to correct a closed or damaged fallopian tube also increases the risk.
It is known that birth control methods cause ectopic pregnancy. Although the chance of getting pregnant is very low in individuals using intrauterine devices, if the woman became pregnant while having an IUD, the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy is high. Tubal ligation, which is a permanent birth control method that is defined as “tying the tubes” among the people, increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
Finally, there are some research results that smoking just before getting pregnant also increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy. The more the individual smokes, the higher the risk of ectopic pregnancy, ie ectopic pregnancy.
What are the Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy?
Some of the criteria shown among the signs of ectopic pregnancy may be similar to the early signs of pregnancy in women. A positive pregnancy test is also a sign of ectopic pregnancy, along with conditions such as lack of menstruation, breast tenderness and nausea. An ectopic pregnancy is most evident when the fertilized egg grows in an inappropriate place. In this case, the following symptoms occur:
- Mild vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Shoulder pain
- The urge to go to the toilet
- Severe pain on one side of the abdomen
- Weight loss
- Headache and fainting
The cases of ectopic pregnancy mostly occur in the fallopian tube, which carries the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. If the fertilized egg continues to develop in the fallopian tube undetected, it causes the tube to rupture, which can lead to life-threatening bleeding and fainting.
How to Prevent Ectopic Pregnancy
There is no intervention to prevent ectopic pregnancy. But there are some ways to reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Since effective results can be achieved in this regard by paying attention to some issues, the factors that reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy are: ~ 153 ~
- Limiting the number of sexual partners
- Using condoms during sex
- Preventing sexually transmitted infections
- Choosing methods to avoid pelvic inflammatory diseases
- Quitting smoking before getting pregnant
How Is An Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is possible with regular pelvic examinations. However, the doctor cannot diagnose an ectopic pregnancy with a pelvic examination alone. Because blood tests and ultrasound examination are also needed for the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. After the transvaginal ultrasound examination, the doctor can easily diagnose the exact location of the individual’s pregnancy and whether it is an ectopic pregnancy.
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