Ectopic Pregnancy

Question 1

Definition of an ectopic pregnancy.

Answer 1

Gestation that implants outside the endometrial cavity.

Question 2

Biggest risk factor for an ectopic pregnancy.

Answer 2

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Question 3

When do most patients present with an ectopic pregnancy?

Answer 3

Usually at 6-8 weeks gestation. Simply because the most common site in the fallopian tube for an ectopic pregnancy can only sustain an embryo that is 6-8 weeks old.

Question 4

Gold standard for diagnosing ectopic pregnancy.

Answer 4

serum hCG levels: should double every 48 hrs
-this indicates pregnancy

Endovaginal Ultrasound: can detect intrauterine pregnancy that is about 5 weeks old
-if no pregnancy is seen in the uterus, ectopic is the diagnosis.

Question 5

Drug used to treat ectopic pregnancy.

Answer 5

Methotrexate

Question 6

When is surgery considered for ectopic pregnancy?

Answer 6

If greater than 3.5 cm
If uterine tube has ruptured
Contraindications to methotrexate