Last month, we began our discussion on ectopic pregnancy. We talked about what happens, how often it occurs, and the symptoms. Along with that information, we want to answer a few more ectopic pregnancy questions below.
How do I know if I am at risk for an ectopic pregnancy?
There is nothing you can do to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, but you may be at a higher risk of developing an ectopic pregnancy if you’ve had:
- A previous ectopic pregnancy.
- A history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection that can cause scar tissue to form in your fallopian tubes, uterus, ovaries and cervix.
- Surgery on your fallopian tubes (including tubal ligation, also referred to as having your tubes tied) or on the other organs of your pelvic area.
- A history of infertility.
- Treatment for infertility with in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Endometriosis
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- An intrauterine device (IUD), a form of birth control, in place at the time of conception.
- A history of smoking.
- Women over age 35 are more at risk than younger women.
What should I do if I am experiencing an ectopic pregnancy?
Seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Without treatment, an ectopic pregnancy can cause heavy bleeding or a ruptured fallopian tube and can be life threatening. If you do not have an obstetrician-gynecologist (a doctor specializing in female problems and pregnancy), then go immediately to the closest hospital Emergency Room!
At Mid Cities Women’s Clinic, we can detect an ectopic pregnancy by a urine pregnancy test accompanied by an ultrasound. An ultrasound exam will rule out a non-viable pregnancy (caused by miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy), as 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage and 1 in 50 end in ectopic pregnancies. Our registered nurses and licensed sonographers can schedule you for an appointment, often on the same day as your consultation. All our services are available at no cost to you, we do not profit from your circumstance. Click here to request your appointment now.