Ectopic pregnancy

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

Female reproductive system, showing pregnancy outside uterus in fallopian tube

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 cause heavy bleeding that could be deadly. So unless the pregnancy is miscarrying on its own, medicine or surgery is used to stop the pregnancy.

Ectopic pregnancy can also occur in an ovary, the cervix, or the abdomen. This is rare.

Current as ofMay 29, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Sarah A. Marshall, MD – Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD – Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology

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