A pregnancy that develops outside the uterus is known as an ectopic pregnancy. This happens when a fertilized egg implants in an area that isn't suitable for its development. The fallopian tube, which joins your ovaries and uterus, is where an ectopic pregnancy usually occurs. Rarely, ectopic pregnancies can develop in the cervix, abdominal cavity, or ovary.

Because only the uterus is meant to carry a pregnancy, ectopic pregnancies cannot proceed. Ectopic pregnancies can become potentially fatal, particularly if the fallopian tube ruptures. This is an ectopic pregnancy rupture, which can result in serious bleeding, infection, and occasionally even death. This is an emergency medical situation. Ectopic pregnancies require prompt medical attention.

Ectopic pregnancies are typically caused by disorders that hinder or impede the egg's passage through the fallopian tube. This may occur as a result of:

• Inflammation, adhesions, or scar tissue from a previous pelvic operation

• Damage to your fallopian tubes, possibly as a result of an STI

• Irregularly shaped fallopian tube from birth

• Blockage in your fallopian tube caused by a growth

Initially, individuals might not experience any symptoms. However, some women who experience an ectopic pregnancy also experience the typical early pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea, breast soreness, and missed periods.

The results of a pregnancy test will be positive. Despite this, an ectopic pregnancy cannot proceed normally. Signs and symptoms become more apparent when the fertilized egg grows in an improper place.

Light vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are often the initial indicators of an ectopic pregnancy.

Shoulder ache or an urge to have a bowel movement could be symptoms of blood leaking from the fallopian tube. The location of the blood collection and the nerves that are affected will determine the specific symptoms.

The fertilized egg may cause the fallopian tube to rupture if it keeps growing inside it. Abdominal bleeding is likely to be severe. This potentially fatal incident manifests as severe dizziness, fainting, and shock.

Certain factors can make ectopic pregnancy more likely. Your risk may be higher if you have:

• Had an ectopic pregnancy before

• Experienced pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause scarring in the fallopian tubes, uterus, ovaries, or cervix

• Undergone surgery on your fallopian tubes (such as tubal ligation) or other pelvic organs

• A history of infertility

• Received infertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF)

• Endometriosis

• A sexually transmitted infection (STI)

• An intrauterine device (IUD) in place when conception occurred

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy, get emergency medical attention:

• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding

• Prolonged dizziness or fainting

• Shoulder pain