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Definition


Ectopic Pregnancy Definition
Common names:
  • Abdominal Pregnancy
  • Ectopic Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Abdominal
  • Pregnancy Ectopic
  • Pregnancy Tubal
  • Tubal Pregnancy
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
A woman with an ectopic pregnancy has a developing pregnancy that is outside of the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies often occur in the Fallopian tube, where they are commonly referred to as a tubal pregnancy. Although an ectopic pregnancy usually occurs in one of the fallopian tubes, it can also occur in other locations inside the abdomen. At the beginning of a normal pregnancy, the egg is fertilized as it passes through the fallopian tube. Then, the fertilized egg (embryo) attaches to the inside of the uterus and starts to grow. Images

What are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?
Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy may include: lower abdominal pain, pale skin, faintness, fainting, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. Images

How does the doctor treat an ectopic pregnancy?
Treatment for ectopic pregnancy includes medications to terminate a pregnancy and surgery. Small ectopic pregnancies may be treated using laparoscopy. VideosImages

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Last Updated: May 29, 2009  References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MDJohn H. Beckett, MDD. Scott Gettings, MD
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