Ectopic Pregnancy

Pronunciation

Definition 1

A condition in which a fertilized egg grows outside of the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. Symptoms include sharp pain on one side of the abdomen and bleeding from the vagina. Also called extrauterine pregnancy. (NCI Dictionary)

Definition 2

An abnormal pregnancy in which the conception is implanted outside the endometrial cavity. (NCI Thesaurus)

Definition 3

The state or condition of having a developing embryo or fetus in the body (outside the uterus), after union of an ovum and spermatozoon, during the period from conception to birth. (Food and Drug Administration)

More information

The uterus, or womb, is an important female reproductive organ. It is the place where a baby grows when a woman is pregnant. If you have an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg grows in an abnormal place, outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. The result is usually a miscarriage.

Ectopic pregnancy can be a medical emergency if it ruptures. Signs of ectopic pregnancy include

• Abdominal pain
• Shoulder pain
• Vaginal bleeding
• Feeling dizzy or faint

Get medical care right away if you have these signs. Doctors use drugs or surgery to remove the ectopic tissue so it doesn't damage your organs. Many women who have had ectopic pregnancies go on to have healthy pregnancies later. (Dept. of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health)