What factors or medications can increase the risk of having an ectopic pregnancy and what are the symptoms?

Question

Hello, my husband and I are planning to have a child and while reading different topics about pregnancy I came across this article talking about ectopic pregnancy. Thank you for educating me more on the subject! Is there a guide for patients who suffer from this complication so that they can become more informed?

Thi Lan Thi Duong · Accepted Answer

Hello, Certain maternal histories may increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, such as the presence of pelvic inflammatory disease , history of ectopic pregnancy, history of abortion, and smoking. It has also been reported that use of the intrauterine IUD as a method of contraception may increase the risk. It should be noted that the chance of simply getting pregnant with the IUD in place is unlikely.  The symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy vary from person to person. Often the woman has vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, cramping or pain in the lower abdomen. In the presence of vaginal bleeding, women may sweat, feel dizzy or even faint. In any case, such a complication is a medical emergency.  The Mcgill University Center has produced a guide for women who take methotrexate to treat this condition. In short, this guide explains what an ectopic pregnancy is, how methotrexate works to treat the condition, how to take it properly and when to seek emergency care. True to your pleasure, Lan Thi Duong, pharmacy student (supervised by Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist)