Is the pregnancy inside the uterus ectopic?

Intrauterine pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy are two completely different pregnancy states. Intrauterine pregnancy refers to the implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus, while ectopic pregnancy refers to the implantation of the fertilized egg outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. Intrauterine pregnancy is a normal pregnancy state, while ectopic pregnancy is an abnormal condition that needs to be treated in a timely manner.

1. The difference between intrauterine pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy

Intrauterine pregnancy is when the fertilized egg implants in the endometrium, which is a normal pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity, usually in the fallopian tube, but can also occur in the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix. Ectopic pregnancy cannot develop normally and may lead to serious complications such as fallopian tube rupture and internal bleeding.

2. Common causes of ectopic pregnancy

The occurrence of ectopic pregnancy is related to many factors. Genetic factors may affect the normal function of the fallopian tube. Environmental factors such as smoking, pelvic infection, endometriosis, etc. can also increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Physiological factors such as fallopian tube abnormalities, surgical history, contraceptive failure, etc. may also lead to ectopic pregnancy. Trauma or pelvic surgery may damage the fallopian tube and increase the probability of ectopic pregnancy. Pathological factors such as fallopian tube inflammation and tumors can also affect the normal implantation of the fertilized egg.

3. Symptoms and diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy

The early symptoms of ectopic pregnancy may not be obvious, and common manifestations include amenorrhea, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, etc. As the disease progresses, severe abdominal pain, shoulder pain, syncope, etc. may occur, indicating a ruptured fallopian tube or internal bleeding. Diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is usually done through ultrasound examination, blood hCG level measurement, etc. Early detection and treatment are crucial to avoid serious complications.

4. Treatment of ectopic pregnancy

Treatment of ectopic pregnancy depends on the severity of the condition and the patient's reproductive needs. Medical treatment, often methotrexate, is suitable for early ectopic pregnancy without rupture. Surgical treatment, including laparoscopy and laparotomy, is suitable for patients with more severe conditions or rupture. Conservative surgery such as salpingotomy can preserve the fallopian tube, while radical surgery such as salpingectomy is suitable for cases where preservation is not possible. After surgery, hCG levels should be closely monitored to ensure complete removal of pregnancy tissue.

5. Recommendations for preventing ectopic pregnancy

The key to preventing ectopic pregnancy is to reduce related risk factors. Avoid smoking, maintain reproductive health, and promptly treat pelvic infections and endometriosis. Use reliable contraceptive methods to avoid unwanted pregnancies. For women with a history of ectopic pregnancy or fallopian tube problems, a detailed examination should be conducted before pregnancy, and pregnancy preparation should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.

Intrauterine pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy are two completely different pregnancy states. Ectopic pregnancy requires timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid serious complications. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatments of ectopic pregnancy can help to increase vigilance and take preventive measures. For women with relevant risk factors, detailed consultation and examination before pregnancy is recommended to ensure a safe pregnancy.