By: Kenneth Elliott
An ectopic pregnancy is an intensely dangerous subject which is extremely important to your baby. That is why is is extremely important to understand and recognize the symptoms of what an ectopic pregnancy. Especially if a planned pregnancy is initiated.
What is an Ectopic Pregnancy and what are the symptoms?
The definition of a Ectopic Pregnancy is in which the fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity, usually in the fallopian tubes. The symptoms of at Ectopic Pregnancy include:
* Abdominal or pelvic pain
* A missed period
* Signs of early pregnancy
* Vaginal bleeding not caused by menstruation
* Dizziness or fainting.
* Low blood pressure when bleeding is severe
All of these are very serious and should not be taken lightly. If you have any of these symptoms be sure to talk to a physician immediately. In the doctors exam he/she will want to perform a pelvic exam to determine if your uterus is enlarged. The physician will also try to feel for a mass in the area of the ovaries and fallopian tubes. This is usually where indications of a Ectopic pregnancy is discovered.
What can happen if these symptoms are ignored?
Ignoring these symptoms is not a good idea. Prolonged and mistreated symptoms will get worse. This could cause:
* Severe sharp and sudden pain in the lower abdominal area
* Feeling faint or actually fainting
* Referred pain to the shoulder and surrounding area.
* Extreme pain near and around the pelvic area
* Internal bleeding
* Going into shock
This is not something that you should play with.
Treatment for Ectopic pregnancy will depend on the location and region of your pregnancy. It will also depend on if you want to be pregnant again in the future. If caught early enough ectopic pregnancy can be treated with medication. More advanced pregnancies or if the pregnancy has returned, may require surgery. Before doctors would have to remove the fallopian tube if pregnancy was located their. Now, technology has afforded doctors a means to salvage the fallopian tube.
Unfortunately, at this time there is no known way to prevent ectopic pregnancy. The only known way to prevent is to not get pregnant by using condoms.
A pregnancy can be incredibly enjoyable. Be sure to be aware of any symptoms and alway have regular checkups with your physician.
