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.
Is age a risk factor for Ectopic Pregnancy?
Age may increase your chances of developing an ectopic pregnancy. This may be due to an increased rate of IVF in older women, which is known to be a risk factor. Also, older women are more likely to have previous surgeries which is also a risk factor. See the website on risk factors for ectopic pregnancy.
Is body size a risk factor for Ectopic Pregnancy?
A high BMI per se is not a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy but a high BMI can make it more difficult to treat an ectopic pregnancy. If you are being treated laparoscopically for your ectopic pregnancy. This is because of possible problems with your general anaesthetic, and it can also be more surgically challenging with the insertion of the laparoscopic trocars used in surgery. See ectopic pregnancy website on surgery for ectopic pregnancy.
Can someone be genetically predisposed to Ectopic Pregnancy?
There is no good evidence that there are any genetic risks for developing an ectopic pregnancy
What different treatment options are available and do I get to decide?
The treatment options depend on the clinical findings. With an early ectopic pregnancy, treatment with methotrexate may be advised provided that the woman can attend a number of follow-up hospital appointments. In most cases, the treatment is surgery, typically performed laparoscopically. Open surgery is only used rarely. You will be assessed by an experienced gynaecologist who will explain the management and advice provided. It is wise to take their advice but you are able to ask for a second opinion. If you decline the medical advice you could be asked to sign a form confirming this. See the website on methotrexate and also to section on surgical treatment.
What aftercare and emotional support will be available to me?
Having an ectopic pregnancy can have a psychological impact. Some women like to share their experiences and this can be done on the ectopic pregnancy foundation website ( see patient experience and psychological impact ). You could contact your GP for surgery to inquire about counselling. The ectopic pregnancy foundation has no central funding and relies on donations. It is our aim if we can raise sufficient funding to set up a counselling service.
Skip to content