An ectopic pregnancy is a condition where a fertilized egg is implanted in a tissue outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube.

Causes

• Blocked fallopian tubes
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia
• Endometriosis
• Surgery of the fallopian tubes
• Certain oral contraceptives
• Certain intrauterine devices
• Congenital defects of the fallopian tube
• Tubal sterilization
• Smoking

Symptoms

• Sharp pain in the pelvis or abdomen
• Lower back pain
• Pain in the shoulder
• Vaginal bleeding
• Dizziness
• Low blood pressure

Treatment

• Medication: Methotrexate to dissolve the pregnancy if detected early
• Surgery: Laparoscopic or open surgery to remove the fetus and repair the damaged tissue

Prevention

• Avoiding multiple partners
• Avoiding STDs
• Promptly treating any infection of the genitals