Understanding the Early Risks of Ectopic Pregnancy: Tips for Women

Typically for a pregnancy to occur, an egg ovulates in the ovary and travels to the fallopian tube where it waits to meet the sperm. Subsequently, the sperm comes up through the uterine cavity and meets the fertilized egg (now referred to as the embryo) in the fallopian tube. The embryo then descends to the fallopian tube and implants inside the uterine cavity. This is where pregnancy is normally supposed to implant. Ectopic pregnancy is a type of complication that may occur in pregnancy. 

However, in some cases, things might not go as smoothly as expected. This is because the fertilized egg might become implanted in an unexpected part of the body which might cause severe consequences. Thus, this article reveals the early risks of ectopic pregnancy all women should know.

What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

This is a serious pregnancy complication that occurs when the blastocyst of an embryo is implanted in any location outside the uterine cavity. Simply put, early pregnancy does not occur where it should for normal growth and development. 95% of cases of ectopic pregnancy occur in the fallopian tube. However, other areas like the ovary or outside of the uterus and in the abdomen can also be the location for the implantation of an embryo.

Although most people recover fully after an ectopic pregnancy, the condition if not managed can be life-threatening. Unfortunately, an ectopic pregnancy cannot be moved from its abnormal location to the uterus for normal growth. Thus, oftentimes, surgical intervention is required.

Early Warning Signs of Ectopic Pregnancy

Although ectopic pregnancy can occur without you realizing it, here are some early warning signs;

• Lower stomach pain
• Vaginal bleeding
• Diarrhea or pain when urinating or passing stool
• Shoulder pain
• A feeling of fullness when lying down is not associated with eating

The signs of ectopic pregnancy can be mistaken for regular pregnancy. Therefore, it is essential to visit your doctor if you experience unusual pain and weakness which can worsen particularly in early pregnancy.

Risk Factors for Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is rare, however, some risk factors can increase the likelihood of occurrence. These include;

• Previous history of ectopic pregnancy
• Endometriosis
• Treatment with IVF
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Use of intrauterine device (IUD)
• Tied tubes
• Advanced age
• Damage to the fallopian tube caused by past infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, or surgery that prompts your body to heal with scar tissue formation.

Having any of these risk factors doesn’t automatically mean that you will have ectopic pregnancy. However, it indicates a higher risk of developing this condition.

Health Tips for Women at Risk

Ectopic pregnancy is a dangerous condition that can even affect future pregnancies if not managed. Therefore, the following tips will help reduce the risk of developing this condition in people that are pregnant;

• Control of risk factors: This entails cessation of smoking and alcohol intake in pregnancy.  Also, it is essential to address underlying health conditions such as endometriosis before getting pregnant. You can also reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections by practicing safe sex practices and avoiding douching.
• Use of prenatal vitamins: Getting pregnancy supplements, especially during the first trimester is vital for successful conception. Specifically, vitamin D plays a significant role in the implantation of embryos in the endometrial tissues of the uterus. Therefore, a deficiency in this essential vitamin may affect the improper implantation of the embryo. This is the mainstay of ectopic pregnancy. Hence, it is vital to get NATURE’SFIELD PREGMUM as it contains these prenatal vitamins for healthy pregnancy including folic acid.

Ectopic pregnancy is one of the causes of mortality and morbidity in women. Furthermore, it can affect subsequent pregnancies if uncontrolled. It is vital to be mindful of the risks, but don’t panic. Ensure you are not lacking vital nutrients during your pregnancy journey by going for NATURE’SFIELD PREGMUM and experiencing a smoother path toward successful conception.