Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com
In a small number of pregnancies, the fertilized egg attaches to an area outside of the uterus, rather than in the uterus. This is called an ectopic pregnancy or extrauterine pregnancy.
Nearly all ectopic pregnancies develop in a fallopian tube. These are often called tubal pregnancies. If left untreated, a tubal ectopic pregnancy can cause fallopian tube damage and life-threatening blood loss. Therefore, unless the pregnancy is miscarrying on its own, medicine is used to stop the pregnancy from growing, or surgery is used to remove it.
Ectopic pregnancy can also occur in an ovary, the cervix, or the abdomen. This is rare.
Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.
