Ectopic pregnancy

The incidence is low 1:700 and unless there is a history of pelvic infection causing some damage to the lining of the fallopian tubes, an ectopic pregnancy is not common. Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that is outside the womb. It can be on any portion of the fallopian tube or even grow on the ovary. This abnormal location of the pregnancy means that it is not possible for the pregnancy to grow to full term and needs to be removed. The risks with an ectopic pregnancy are that as it grows in the tube, it will erode through the tube and rupture a blood vessel resulting in bleeding into the abdomen.

Thus the importance of an early check-up with the obstetrician as he will be able to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy before any serious mishap. Unfortunately an ectopic may be difficult to view on ultrasound scan but will be suspected if there is no pregnancy sac in the womb, and blood pregnancy hormone levels show a slow rise. Sometimes the sac can be seen in the tube and it will give the typical vivid appearance of surrounding blood vessels called the 'ring of fire'.

Diagnosis is by laparoscopy ( inserting a telescope through the belly button) and viewing the fallopian tubes. Treatment is either removing the pregnancy alone by cutting open the afected tube, or removing th entire tube if it is too badly damaged. The alternative is to use a cancer drug to try and dissolve the pregnancy.