What is the difference between an ectopic pregnancy and a normal pregnancy, and their symptoms and causes? Many women find it difficult to differentiate between a normal pregnancy and an ectopic pregnancy, as both cases exhibit early pregnancy symptoms. We will learn about some of the signs to differentiate between them and how to prevent ectopic pregnancy in the rest of the article.
What is an ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy, or ectopic pregnancy, is a condition in which the fertilized egg implants somewhere outside the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube. It is a serious medical emergency that cannot continue because the embryo does not have room to grow there.
What is a normal pregnancy
A normal pregnancy occurs when an egg is fertilized by a sperm. The fertilized egg implants in the uterus and continues to grow healthily in its natural location until birth.
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include early symptoms and more serious, advanced symptoms. Early symptoms include:
- Normal signs of pregnancy, such as missed menstrual periods and breast pain.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding can be light or dark.
- Mild pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen, usually on one side.
- Mild cramps that occur on one side of the pelvis.
Advanced and serious symptoms:
- Severe, unbearable pain in the lower abdomen.
- A feeling of pressure in the rectum or discomfort when urinating.
- Shoulder pain resulting from internal bleeding that irritates the nerves.
- Heavy vaginal bleeding.
When do symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy begin
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy usually appear between the fourth and twelfth week of pregnancy, but they may appear later in some rare cases.
Early symptoms include pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, and abdominal pain with dizziness or severe pain. A doctor should be consulted immediately for evaluation.
Symptoms of a normal pregnancy
Symptoms of a normal pregnancy include:
- A delayed period, which is the first sign, especially if your menstrual cycle is regular.
- Light bleeding and vaginal discharge accompanied by mild pain due to the fertilized egg attaching to the uterine wall.
- Morning sickness, which can occur at any time of day.
- Changes in the breasts, including swelling and increased sensitivity.
- Night cravings, which are a strong desire to eat certain foods or an aversion to certain foods.
- Increased urge to urinate, especially at night.
- Extreme fatigue and exhaustion.
What are the causes of ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube. This occurs as a result of factors that impede the movement of the fertilized egg, such as blocked or damaged tubes.
Other factors may increase the risk, such as maternal age over 35, smoking, certain pelvic inflammatory diseases, and assisted reproductive technology.
Methods for preventing ectopic pregnancy
It is not possible to prevent ectopic pregnancy with 100% certainty, but the risk can be reduced by:
- Quitting smoking if you are planning to become pregnant.
- Practicing safe sex to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections or pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Seeing regular medical care, especially if you have a history of ectopic pregnancy or any previous risk factors.
How do I differentiate between an ectopic pregnancy and a normal pregnancy
The main difference between a normal pregnancy and an ectopic pregnancy lies in the location of the fertilized egg's implantation. In a normal pregnancy, the egg implants in the uterine wall, while in an ectopic pregnancy, it implants outside the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube.
Diagnosing an Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed through:
- A blood test to measure the pregnancy hormone. The test is repeated every few days to track changes in hormone levels.
- An ultrasound examination through a vaginal exam to see the location of the pregnancy and confirm that it is not inside the uterus.
- A serial blood test, where the pregnancy hormone readings in the blood are compared over several days.
Methods for Treating Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancies are treated either surgically or with medications prescribed by the treating physician:
- Methotrexate injections are prescribed, which stop the growth of the ectopic pregnancy cells. These are then gradually absorbed by the body.
- Surgical intervention is used to remove the gestational sac when there are signs of rupture or if the pregnancy has grown too large. A portion of the affected fallopian tube is removed.
Is it possible to treat an ectopic pregnancy without surgery
.In advanced cases, or if the ectopic pregnancy has persisted for a long time, it must be treated to save the woman's life If left untreated.
Summary of The difference between an ectopic pregnancy and a normal
The main difference between a normal and an ectopic pregnancy is the location of the gestational sac implantation In a normal pregnancy, the embryo implants in the uterine lining and grows normally and healthily.
In an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo implants in the fallopian tube outside the uterus. This poses a risk to the normal development of the fetus and requires immediate treatment to avoid serious complications such as internal bleeding and rupture.