Hi

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. This can be very dangerous because a tubal pregnancy can rupture the fallopian tube, causing uncontrolled bleeding. This uncontrolled bleeding is a serious medical emergency that if left untreated can lead to shock, and even death.

In the case of an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo cannot be left to grow to much longer—therefore the developing cells must be removed. The most common treatments involve making a small incision in the lower abdomen (just below the belly-button) to remove the developing cells from where they have implanted, usually in the fallopian tube.

If the embryo or fetus has already developed to a stage where it has ruptured the fallopian tube, the woman must be under immediate and emergency medical care; and surgery must be done to stop the blood loss.

If the doctor determines that the ectopic pregnancy will not rupture, the woman can be given a drug called methotrexate (which terminates the pregnancy) and monitored.

Best of health to you all.