Question:

What is an ectopic pregnancy?

Answered by obstetrician Mary Kinyoun, MD:

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg (embryo) grows outside of the uterus. The most common ectopic pregnancies happen in the fallopian tube, but they can also rarely occur in the ovary, the abdomen, or the cervix. 

“This type of pregnancy can cause life-threatening internal bleeding and unfortunately will not result in a live baby, typically requiring medication or surgical treatment,” adds Dr. Kinyoun. “About 2% of pregnancies are ectopic, but if you have pain or bleeding in early pregnancy, about 18% of the time, the pregnancy is ectopic. People with a history of ectopic pregnancy should be followed closely in subsequent pregnancies with serial HCG levels and early ultrasound.” 

Common symptoms are vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain, often on one side. This pain can range from mild to very severe. People at increased risk include those with a history of:

• Ectopic pregnancy.
• Pelvic infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Tubal ligation or ruptured appendix.
• Tobacco use.
• Pregnancy with an intrauterine device (IUD) in place.
• In vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancy.

Even low-risk, healthy patients can be affected by pregnancy loss and ectopic pregnancy. Be extra vigilant and watch for warning signs if you have a history. Seek care from a high-risk obstetrician early in pregnancy if you have a history of blood clots, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

I encourage individuals with concerns about early pregnancy to contact our comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology professionals at the Olson Center. Our Early Pregnancy Assessment Clinic is designed to handle early pregnancy complications in an evidence-based manner.”