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Ectopic Pregnancy

Implantation of the fertilized egg outside the uterus is an emergency requiring early diagnosis and treatment.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Ectopic Pregnancy?

Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus — most commonly (95%) in the tubes. It can more rarely be seen in the ovary, cervix, abdominal cavity, or cesarean scar.

Before tube rupture develops, early diagnosis can be made with β-hCG levels and transvaginal ultrasonography. While medical treatment (methotrexate) is possible in stable patients, emergency surgery is mandatory in hemodynamic instability.

Previous ectopic pregnancy significantly increases the risk of future ectopic pregnancy. Tube-sparing surgery (salpingostomy) is positive for the next pregnancy but carries the risk of recurrent ectopic.

Symptoms

Unilateral groin pain with missed period
Vaginal spotting or mild bleeding
Shoulder pain (referred sign of internal bleeding to the diaphragm)
Dizziness, fainting sensation (internal bleeding)
Sudden severe abdominal pain and shock in tube rupture (EMERGENCY)

Risk Factors

Previous tube infection or pelvic inflammatory disease
Previous ectopic pregnancy
Having had tube surgery or ligation
Intrauterine device use (high ectopic risk if pregnancy occurs)
Assisted reproductive techniques (IVF)
Smoking

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Urgently in every case where pregnancy test is positive and pelvic pain accompanies
  • When unilateral pain with vaginal bleeding is experienced
  • When dizziness, weakness, or fainting sensation appears
  • In sudden severe abdominal pain (EMERGENCY)

Treatment Methods

01
Methotrexate medical treatment: IM injection in stable, small ectopic pregnancies
02
Laparoscopic salpingostomy: Removing the pregnancy while preserving the tube
03
Laparoscopic salpingectomy: Removing the tube (in rupture or recurrent ectopic)
04
Emergency laparotomy: In hemodynamic instability
05
Anti-D immunoglobulin administration in Rh-negative patients
06
β-hCG reset and tubal patency evaluation before next pregnancy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.