ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

An ectopic pregnancy is any case in which a fertilized ovum implants itself and begins to grow in tissue other than the uterine wall. 98% of ectopic pregnancies are tubal pregnancies in which the fertilized ovum takes root in the fallopian tube. However, eggs can also implant themselves in the cervix, abdominal cavity and ovaries. 1 out of 100 pregnancies is ectopic.

Ectopic pregnancies are dangerous because fertilized ova are designed to attach and invade surrounding tissue. This is necessary in order for the fetus to be supplied with blood. However, in the case of an ectopic implantation, the ovum cells invade tissues that are not designed to supply this blood. This can cause disruption of major blood vessels and arteries which can lead to hemorrhage and death.

Most of the time the body will automatically flush out the ovum, but sometimes abortive medicines or surgery are required. It is possible for a woman to have both an ectopic and a normal pregnancy at the same time. Medical personnel typically do an ultrasound before surgery or drug therapy to make sure a viable uterine pregnancy is not occurring simultaneous to the ectopic one.

Vaginal douching is thought to increase the chance of ectopic pregnancies.

The catholic church does not consider abortion to be a sin in the case of ectopic pregnancy.

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