Every month we will identify the most commonly asked questions about ectopic pregnancy and answer them. If you have any further questions which you cannot find answers to on the website, please can you contact us.
What are the chances of having a second ectopic pregnancy?
After a first ectopic pregnancy, subsequent pregnancies are inter-uterine, and the recurrent rate is quoted at about 18%. As this is the case, it is important in a subsequent pregnancy to be seen by health care professionals and a vaginal scan may be undertaken to locate the site of the pregnancy. See recurrence rates on the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website.
What’s the difference between ectopic pregnancy and ovarian cyst symptoms?
Although ovarian cysts and ectopic pregnancy may both present with unilateral lower abdominal pain, there are differences in other presenting symptoms. With an ectopic pregnancy, a period may be late, a pregnancy test and qualities bHCG are positive, and there may be vaginal discharge (prune juice) or fresh bleeding can also occur. These symptoms are not present with an ovarian cyst. See symptoms and presentation on the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website.
Do all nations deliver the same care management for women with ectopic pregnancy?
The diagnosis and treatment options that are available are dependent on the resources available, such as transvaginal ultrasound and b HCG assays. The availability of treatment options such as methotrexate and laparoscopic equipment also depends on whether there are staff members who have the required training. In most parts of the world, medical or laparoscopic surgery is the preferred treatment option. However, in third-world countries, such options may not be feasible.
What are the signs of ectopic pregnancy at 6 weeks?
Symptoms usually occur at about 6 weeks and may comprise of dark “ prune juice “ vaginal discharge and lower abdominal/pelvic discomfort or pain usually constant and on one side. See Signs of Ectopic Pregnancy for more information.
What is the least common site of ectopic pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy outside the normal site in the uterine cavity, usually in the Fallopian tube, but there are several other sites, including the ovary or cervix. One of the least common sites is in a scar on the uterus usually in a caesarean section scar. It may be that with the increasing rise in the Caesarean section rate, these cases may become more common – See Sites on the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website.