Symptoms of Tubal Pregnancy: All Women Should Know

Why is important to know the symptoms of tubal pregnancy? Modern science has increased our risk of tubal pregnancy. Tubal pregnancy causes serious and sometimes fatal side effects. Certain popular methods of birth control such as IUD's carry a greater risk of tubal pregnancy. Other risk factors include a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, abdominal surgery, tubal ligation surgery, sexually transmitted diseases and birth control pill use. All women, irregardless of their risk factor, should be aware of the symptoms of tubal pregnancy.

What is a Tubal Pregnancy?
A tubal pregnancy occurs when the female egg is fertilized within the fallopian tube and does not move to the uterus for development. The fetus grows within the fallopian tube, rather than in the uterus. This presents a clear danger to the mother. The fallopian tube is not large enough to accommodate the growing fetus. The tube may burst, causing internal bleeding. This can result in death to the mother. This is why it's essential to know the symptoms of ectopic or tubal pregnancy.

What are the Statistics?
About 1 out of every 100 pregnancies is a tubal pregnancy. Women between the ages of 35 and 44 are at a higher risk for tubal pregnancy. Tubal pregnancy normally occurs due to blockage of the pathway to the uterus. Women without risk factors can still have a tubal pregnancy. Up to 9% of all pregnancy related deaths are caused by tubal pregnancy. It's important for all women to be aware of tubal pregnancy symptoms, whether or not they are at high risk.

Initial Symptoms
The initial symptoms of tubal pregnancy are the same as with a normal pregnancy. Be aware of tender or swollen breasts, morning sickness, missed or irregular periods and any other typical pregnancy symptoms. The difference between a tubal pregnancy symptoms and normal pregnancy symptoms will be clear once the fetus begins to grow.

Mid Stage Tubal Pregnancy Symptoms
Once the fetus begins to grow within the fallopian tube, clearer tubal pregnancy symptoms will occur. Mid stage tubal pregnancy symptoms will often include pain or cramping in the pelvic region. Pain on one side is particularly indicative of a tubal pregnancy. A tubal pregnancy may also cause bleeding or spotting that is not typical of a normal period.

Ruptured Fallopian Tube
Symptoms of a ruptured fallopian tube due to tubal pregnancy may include severe abdominal pain. This pain is often located on the side of the affected tube. Internal bleeding can cause a drop in blood pressure. Internal bleeding may also cause extreme dizziness, a lightheaded sensation or fainting. Anyone with these symptoms of tubal pregnancy should seek immediate medical attention.

Please Note: The author is not a licensed medical professional. This article is for general information purposes only. See your doctor for diagnoses and treatment of tubal pregnancy.

Sources:

http://tubalpregnancy.net/

http://pregnancy.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Signs_and_Symptoms_of_Tubal_Pregnancy