ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

What Is Ectopic Pregnancy? 

Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus (womb). Most ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tube. Early recognition of an ectopic pregnancy can prevent serious medical complications for the woman and may mean that the fallopian tube can be preserved. 

Women who experience an ectopic pregnancy have all the normal signs associated with pregnancy. In addition they may notice abnormal bleeding vaginally and lower abdominal pain that may either be right or left sided. Occasionally increased pain or dizziness may be noticed. You should contact your doctor or a hospital if this occurs. 

An ultra-sound examination and blood test may be performed to confirm the pregnancy and its position in the pelvis. 

Treatment 

Currently there are three different treatments available. Your doctor will discuss with you the most appropriate treatment. 

Types of treatment available are described below but it should be noted that it may become necessary for your doctor to proceed from one method while you are anaesthetised. 

Laparoscopic removal of pregnancy:

A telescopic device (the laparoscope) is inserted through a small incision below the naval. 

Carbon dioxide gas is also blown into the abdomen by means of a fine needle. In this way organs in the pelvis can be easily inspected. 

A second small incision is made lower in the abdomen and small instruments may be inserted through this to manipulate, and if necessary surgically remove, the pregnancy from the tube. 

By this means the tube can be conserved. It is essential that follow-up test be done to make sure the pregnancy is completely removed. This may be done as an outpatient, to ensure no further treatment is required.

Laparotomy to remove the ectopic pregnancy:

If the pregnancy is advanced or the tube has been ruptured, or no further pregnancies are wanted, the tube may be removed completely either by use of laparoscopic instruments or by means of an incision and operation called a laparotomy. Removal of the affected fallopian tube will be done at this time. 

Some patients require additional blood tests as an outpatient to ensure that the treatment has been completed 

Recovery 

Following the operation you may experience some of the following:

• Abdominal discomfort.
• Tiredness.
• Vaginal bleeding 

Your doctor will provide you with specific advice about resuming normal activities, Statistically women who have has an ectopic pregnancy are at slightly increased risk of a second ectopic pregnancy. Your doctor will discuss this with you and your partner. 

Feelings 

You and your partner may experience a wide range of confused feelings. This may include intense sadness, disappointment, a sense your body had let you down and anxiety about the future. 

The hospital has resources and personnel available for you. Support and counselling are available through the social worker or chaplain. 

There are also support groups such as CRADLE NT which can provide understanding and appropriate ongoing support. 

CRADLE Support Group

The group holds monthly meetings with the opportunity for personal and group discussions. The type of support received by families after a pregnancy loss is of crucial importance for their subsequent psychological and physical health, their social adjustment and marital relationship.

Support group meetings are held on the second Saturday of the month at the Darwin Private Hospital Boardroom at 10am. Support and counselling can be arranged for people not in Darwin.

CRADLE NT INC.

PHONE: 0438 272 353.