Extrauterine pregnancy, also known as ectopic pregnancy, is a medical condition in which a fertilized egg implants and develops outside of the uterus, typically in one of the fallopian tubes. This type of pregnancy is considered abnormal and has potential risks to the health of the woman involved.
In a regular pregnancy, after fertilization of the egg by a sperm, the fertilized egg travels through the fallopian tube into the uterus, where it implants and continues to grow. However, in an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg gets trapped in the fallopian tube and begins to develop there. In rare cases, it may implant in other areas such as the cervix, ovary, or even the abdominal cavity.
Extrauterine pregnancies often present with symptoms similar to a normal pregnancy, such as missed periods, breast tenderness, and nausea. However, as the embryo expands, it can cause severe pain and bleeding. If left untreated, extrauterine pregnancies can cause life-threatening complications, such as rupture of the fallopian tube and internal bleeding.
Diagnosis of an extrauterine pregnancy may involve physical examination, ultrasound imaging, and blood tests to measure pregnancy hormones. Treatment options depend on the size and location of the pregnancy, as well as the overall health of the woman. Options may include medication to terminate the pregnancy, laparoscopic surgery to remove the embryo, or rarely, open abdominal surgery.
Overall, early detection and prompt medical intervention play a crucial role in managing extrauterine pregnancies and minimizing potential risks to the woman's health.
