Ectopic pregnancies are far more common than people think. On average this condition affects one in a hundred pregnancies. Here we discuss the symptoms and the effects this condition has on women.
What Is An Ectopic Pregnancy?
Put simply an Ectopic Pregnancy is a pregnancy that develops outside of the womb, usually in one of the fallopian tubes, cervix or ovary. It usually happens when the fallopian tube is damaged or blocked and prevents the fertilised egg from reaching its correct destination and therefore it implants itself in the fallopian tube.
What Are The Symptoms Of An Ectopic Pregnancy?
Ectopic Pregnancies are usually discovered between the fourth and tenth week of pregnancy when the expectant mother will have experienced some of the following symptoms.
- Pain when urinating or opening her bowels
- Vaginal bleeding, which is darker and more watery than a normal period bleed
- Diarrhoea, fainting, vomiting and general pain.
- Persistent pain on one side of the abdomen
- Pain in the shoulder
Can It Affect Any Expectant Mother?
Affecting one in a hundred pregnancies makes this condition a lot more common than most women realise. However there are certain factors, which could make a woman more at risk of an Ectopic Pregnancy.
- If they have had Chlamydia in the past, their chances of having an Ectopic Pregnancy are increased