There are several complications that can occur in pregnancy, whether it is natural or through ART. Some can be treated without disturbing the pregnancy. But some can force you to terminate your pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy is one such complication. Ectopic pregnancy happens when the fertilized egg (embryo) implants somewhere else other than the uterine lining. It mostly implants in the fallopian tubes.
Ectopic pregnancy can be painful. Understanding the reasons it happens can help you take preventive measures against it. In this article, we will discuss the reasons for ectopic pregnancy, along with their symptoms and tips to avoid it.
Reasons for an ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is a rare condition. However, it does not mean that it will not happen. There are several reasons you can get an ectopic pregnancy. Understanding these reasons can help you prepare for it and rectify the situation before it gets serious.
Below are the reasons for an ectopic pregnancy.
Fallopian tube blockages
After fertilization your egg must travel through the fallopian tube to reach the uterus for implantation. If the tubes are blocked, it can prevent the travel and make the egg implant in the fallopian tubes. This can cause ectopic pregnancy.
Your age
Studies have shown that age has an important role in the number of ectopic pregnancies that happen. They found that women in their 20s have a 1.4% of ectopic pregnancy, and women in their late 30s or 40s have over 6.9% chance of ectopic pregnancy.
Previous tubal surgery
If you have had previous surgeries in your fallopian tubes, it can increase the chances of an ectopic pregnancy.
Previous ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancies have been shown to be recurrent and appear in couples who have already had it in their previous pregnancies.
Birth control devices
Sometimes, the sperm might go past the IUD (Intrauterine Device) and fertilize the mature egg. If the egg is unable to travel past the device and reach the uterus, it can cause ectopic pregnancy.
Tubal ligation can also increase the chances of ectopic pregnancy. In this procedure, your fallopian tubes are tied to block sperm from reaching the egg. However, if fertilization does happen, it will mostly be an ectopic pregnancy.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause inflammation in the fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs. This can increase the chances of ectopic pregnancy.
Smoking
Smoking has also been linked to the increased chances of ectopic pregnancies. Studies show that women who smoke are more prone to the condition than non-smokers.
Ectopic pregnancy Symptoms
Ectopic pregnancy is a major compilation that should be treated immediately. Below are some symptoms you might experience if you have this condition. Visit your fertility doctor immediately if you have any of them.
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe pain in your lower abdomen, lower back, and pelvis
- Feeling dizzy or weak
- Fainting
- Nausea & vomiting
- Shoulder pain
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Rectal pressure or bowel movements
The first sign of an ectopic pregnancy will usually be vaginal bleeding and a sharp pain in the abdomen areas. You might also experience shoulder pain if the fallopian tube ruptures and disturbs the nearby nerves.
An ectopic pregnancy should be removed as soon as possible. Consult your doctor immediately if you have any of the above symptoms.
How to avoid an ectopic pregnancy?
You can’t control where your egg implants after fertilization. However, here are some ways you can avoid ectopic pregnancy.
- Address the issues in your fallopian tubes. If you have blockages or other issues, treat them before trying to get pregnant.
- Treat PIDs (Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases) and STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) before trying to conceive.
- Avoid smoking
- Follow a healthy lifestyle
Chances of pregnancy after an ectopic pregnancy
It is normal for you to be worried about your future pregnancies if you had an ectopic pregnancy before. You might be worried that your next pregnancy will also be ectopic.
Though there are chances of this happening, it is not always the case. Studies show that about 85% of women who had ectopic pregnancies in the past had a healthy pregnancy when they tried after some time.
It is important to work with your fertility doctor and follow all their instructions. This can help you overcome your issues and have a healthy pregnancy.
Conclusion
Ectopic pregnany is a serious condition that can be caused by various reasons. It has to be treated immediately to avoid certain complications. So, understand the reasons and rectify them before trying to get pregnant.
You don’t need to worry about getting pregnant again. With the guidance and care of your fertility doctor, you can get pregnant again. So, don’t panic, and take care of your body and health.
Below are the reasons for an ectopic pregnancy.
- Fallopian tube blockages
- Your age
- Previous tubal surgery
- Previous ectopic pregnancy
- Birth control devices like IUDs (Intrauterine Devices)
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- Smoking
No, ectopic pregnancy is very dangerous and can be fatal for both the mother and the baby. If the fetus is not removed, the baby might grow in the fallopian tube and can cause fallopian tube rupture. So, no, it is very rare and almost impossible to have a successful ectopic pregnancy.
After fertilization your egg must travel through the fallopian tube to reach the uterus for implantation. If the tubes are blocked, it can prevent the travel and make the egg implant in the fallopian tubes. This can cause ectopic pregnancy.
You can’t control where your egg implants after fertilization. However, here are some ways you can avoid ectopic pregnancy.
- Address the issues in your fallopian tubes.
- Treat PIDs (Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases) and STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections).
- Avoid smoking
- Follow a healthy lifestyle
