Ectopic (ektos = outside; topos = place)
Ectopic pregnancy refers to the development of an embryo or fetus outside the uterine cavity. most occur in the uterine (fallopian) tube, usually in the ampullar and infundibular portions.
Some occur in the ovaries, abdomen, uterine cervix, and broad ligaments.
Tubal pregnancies usually occur because passage of the fertilized ovum through the uterine tube is impaired. The cause may be decreased motility of the uterine tube or abnormal anatomy.
Scars from pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), previous uterine tube surgery, and previous ectopic pregnancy may hinder movement of the fertilized ovum.
Other causes include repeated elective abortions, pelvic tumors, and developmental abnormalities.
Ectopic pregnancy may be characterized by one or two missed periods, followed by bleeding and acute abdominal and pelvic pain.
Unless removed, the developing embryo can rupture the tube, often resulting in death of the mother.
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