Risk factors of ectopic pregnancy: a study in a tertiary care centre

Abstract

Background: Over the years, there has been a considerable rise in the incidence of ectopic pregnancy. This study was undertaken to identify the risk factors that contribute to this condition, so that immediate action can be taken so as to save the mother.Methods: 62 women, in their first trimester of pregnancy who were diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy were included in the study. Demographic details, clinical and obstetric details were taken from all the patients. Ultrasound was performed to confirm the ectopic pregnancy.Results: Out of the 62 patients, most of them with ectopic pregnancy were found to be in the 26-30 (40.3%) year’s age group. Smoking, whether active or passive was observed in nearly 42% of the cases. The mean gravid status among the women was 3, with 34 live births. 21 of them had induced abortions and 4 were spontaneous. PID was observed in 12 patients (19.4%), 17.7% were IUD users.Conclusions: Risk factors such as previous ectopic pregnancy, use of contraceptives, infertility, PID, abortion as well as increased maternal age aid in the early detection of ectopic pregnancy in women resulting in proper and timely treatment.

Risk factors for ectopic pregnancy among pregnant women attending a tertiary healthcare facility in Accra, Ghana

“…The etiology of ectopic pregnancy remains unclear, although several risk factors have been identified . High on the list of risk factors is pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), history of previous ectopic pregnancy or tubal surgery, use of fertility drugs or assisted reproduction, and advanced maternal age, among others . These risk factors may vary among populations with different sociodemographic characteristics …”

“…9 High on the list of risk factors is pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), history of previous ectopic pregnancy or tubal surgery, use of fertility drugs or assisted reproduction, and advanced maternal age, among others. 3,10,11 These risk factors may vary among populations with different sociodemographic characteristics. 12 Awareness of the risk factors is essential for identifying women at higher risk of ectopic pregnancy, and facilitating early diagnosis and treatment to prevent death.…”

Prevalencia de embarazo ectópico en el Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín, 2017 a 2019

“…La incidencia varía según la población; se ha contabilizado entre 1 y 2% de todos los embarazos informados 1, 3. A pesar de las mejoras de diagnóstico y manejo, la ruptura del embarazo ectópico es aún una causa importante de morbimortalidad relacionada con la gestación. Durante los años 2011 a 2013, la ruptura de embarazos ectópicos se produjo en el 2,7% de todas las muertes que ocurrieron en el primer trimestre de la gestación 3,4 .…”