Font Size
A
A
A

Ectopic Pregnancy (cont.)

Ectopic Pregnancy Causes

Ectopic pregnancy is caused when a fertilized egg lodges in a fallopian tube instead of continuing its journey to the uterus, where it is supposed to implant. The egg gets stuck when a tube is damaged, scarred, or distorted. Common conditions that increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy include the following:

  • Previous tube infections (salpingitis), such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), chlamydia, and gonorrhea

  • Previous surgery inside the abdomen, especially involving the fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, lower abdomen, or bowels (Local surgery to the outside of the cervix is not a risk factor.)

  • Use of fertility medications at the time of conception

  • Prior history of tubal pregnancy

  • The use of an intrauterine device (IUD) does not increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. However, a normal pregnancy is unlikely with an IUD in place, so if a woman becomes pregnant while using an IUD, it is more likely the pregnancy is not inside the uterus.



Next: Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms »

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Ectopic Pregnancy - Symptoms Experienced

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

Please describe the symptoms and diagnosis with your ectopic pregnancy.

Anonymously share your comment to help others. Viewer Comments FAQs
See 3 Viewer Comments & Reviews

Submit Your Review


Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz


Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Ectopic Pregnancy »

Ectopic pregnancy presents a major health problem for women of childbearing age.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary