Ectopic Pregnancy

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An egg as it is being released from the ovary during ovulation is picked-up by a healthy fallopian tube with its finger-like projections called fimbria. The egg is then gradually squeezed through the fallopian tube and into the uterus by segmental tubal contractions. In order for this to take place, the fallopian tube has to be open (patent) and functionally normal. Pelvic infections may result in tubal blockage or in the loss of tubal function. In such cases, the egg may get into the fallopian tube and become fertilized but it cannot be transported into the uterus and implants in the fallopian tube.

An ectopic (out-of-place) pregnancy is one in which the fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterine cavity - 98% of the time in the fallopian tube - resulting in what is called a tubal pregnancy. On rare occasions, ectopic pregnancy may be outside of the fallopian tube in the abdominal cavity, cervical canal, or in an ovary. Diagnosis of an ectopic pregnancy involves various tests (including ultrasound, quantitative HCGs, and laparoscopy) and it may take days or weeks before definitive diagnosis can be made.

The first symptom of ectopic pregnancy may be severe abdominal pain accompanying the rupture of a fallopian tube. It may be misidentified as the onset of a miscarriage. A pregnancy occurring in a tube or in the abdominal cavity is not viable and must be terminated. If you are pregnant, it is imperative that you report all serious abdominal pain to your doctor immediately - a ruptured tube is a surgical emergency. For a medical practice devoted to reproductive endocrinology, infertility, and assisted reproductive technology, call OAK BROOK FERTILITY CENTER, a place where dreams are conceived and hopes delivered. New patients are welcome.

P.S. Laparoscopy involves a visual examination inside the abdomen.

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