By Dr. Archana A Prabhu, Gynaecology
Ectopic pregnancy is a rare and very serious complication during pregnancy wherein the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. The most common symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are excessive pain, cramps, bleeding from the vagina, dizziness and nausea. In almost all cases, it causes severe internal bleeding and serious infection. Since, it is a very serious condition, women experiencing this condition need to avail treatment almost right away.
In this type of pregnancy, the egg which is fertilized, attaches itself to the fallopian tube in the body. This condition is often known as tubal pregnancy. In very rare cases, the fertilized egg attaches itself to other parts such as the cervix, ovary or a random part in the abdomen.
Treatment for Ectopic Pregnancy:
There are certain medications and surgeries one can avail of to treat this condition. If not treated in time, this kind of pregnancy can prove to be fatal.
- A particular medication known as methotrexate is used to end an ectopic pregnancy.
- In some cases, one might need surgery to get rid of the pregnancy. In certain complicated cases, it might be necessary to remove the tube with the foetus. This kind of surgery which removes the foetus and the tube is calling salpingectomy. The surgeon usually makes a small incision near the navel and removes the tube using a laparoscope.
Dealing with this condition, emotionally…
Ectopic pregnancy might have the same impact on you as like a miscarriage because you lose a foetus along with your fallopian tube. In some cases, the tube becomes scarred which makes it difficult for you to get pregnant again.
To combat depression, you can avail services of a medical practitioner (psychotherapist or psychologist) who will help you deal with the after effects of this pregnancy.