Watch as Parents answers your pregnancy facts question: What is an ectopic pregnancy? Be on the lookout for ectopic pregnancy symptoms, as this is considered a medical emergency that could endanger the life of the mother as the pregnancy continues. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants on the outside of the uterus low in the cervix, in the fallopian tubes, the cervix, or the abdomen. Signs of an ectopic pregnancy can range from frequent bleeding and cramps, particularly if you are experiencing more cramps on one side of your body than the other. Certain women have a higher risk for an ectopic pregnancy than others, so be sure to let your doctor know if you've experienced pelvic infections in the past, had infertility treatments, a prior tubal ligation, or became pregnant with an intrauterine device in place. It's best to consult with your doctor as soon as possible if you've experienced any of these things as all of these factors could lead to showing symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy treatment can be terminated medically, that is without surgery, if discovered early enough. If your pregnancy is further along, however, you will have to consult with your physician about terminating it surgically. Don't be afraid to get pregnant again after you have experienced an ectopic pregnancy. More than half of the women who experience ectopic pregnancies go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future.
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