A Case of Ovarian Ectopic Pregnancy after In-Vitro-Fertilization

Abstract

The incidence of Ectopic Pregnancies (EP) following IVF is 3-5-fold higher than in general population and has been reported to be in the range of 1-5%. The 35-year old primigravida presented in our Outpatient Clinic with lower abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting 30 days after the transfer of two embryos following IVF treatment. She had pressure pain and tenderness in the right adnexal area, as well as muscular abdominal defense. Transvaginal ultrasound revealed free intraperitoneal fluid in the pouch of Douglas and a cystic mass in the right adnexa without a definite embryonal structure. A diagnostic laparoscopy revealed coagulated blood in the pelvis and partly destructed right ovarian tissue, which clinically resembled a typical corpus luteum hemorrhage. This tissue was removed. Histological examination showed ovarian ectopic pregnancy. In this case report we discuss causes and diagnostic challenges of ectopic pregnancy following IVF.