Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is a potentially life-threatening condition in which a fertilized egg implants and begins to develop outside the uterus, typically in one of the fallopian tubes. In rare cases, ectopic pregnancies may occur in other locations, such as the cervix, ovary, or abdominal cavity, but fallopian tube ectopic pregnancies are the most common.
In a normal pregnancy, a fertilized egg travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus, where it implants and grows. However, in an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg becomes implanted and begins to grow in the fallopian tube or another location outside the uterus. This can lead to serious complications if not detected and treated promptly.
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy may include:
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Abdominal or pelvic pain: Sharp or stabbing pain on one side of the abdomen or pelvis may occur, often beginning as mild discomfort and becoming more severe over time.
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Vaginal bleeding: Light vaginal bleeding may occur, often similar to menstrual bleeding but may be lighter or heavier.
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Shoulder pain: In some cases, ectopic pregnancy can cause shoulder pain, which may be due to irritation of the diaphragm from blood leaking into the abdominal cavity.
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Weakness, dizziness, or fainting: These symptoms may occur if the ectopic pregnancy ruptures and causes internal bleeding, leading to low blood pressure and shock.
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Gastrointestinal symptoms: Some women may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Category:Gynae & Obs
