Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy outside the uterine cavity. A fertilized egg is supposed to implant in the uterine cavity. When implantation takes place outside the uterus, an outside (= extra) uterine (= uterine) pregnancy (= gravidity) (EUG) occurs. An EUG occurs in less than 1 in 100 pregnancies. Most ectopic pregnancies are located in the fallopian tube. A small part settles somewhere else in the abdomen.

Some women are more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy:

• If the fallopian tubes are damaged by a previous infection or by surgery
• If someone has had an EUG before

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF AN EUG?

In the beginning of an ectopic pregnancy, you do not necessarily have to have any complaints. Later, women often experience blood loss and/or abdominal pain.

WHAT TO DO?

If you have complaints that may indicate an EUG, your midwife will make an ultrasound to see where the pregnancy is implanted. If there is a suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy after the ultrasound, you will be referred to the gynecologist for further examination. An ectopic pregnancy cannot be carried to term and can cause complications for the pregnant woman if it continues. If an EUG is diagnosed, you will have surgery or you will be given medication to terminate the pregnancy.