An ectopic pregnancy is a serious medical condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. Unlike normal pregnancies, an ectopic pregnancy cannot progress and poses a significant risk to the mother’s health if not treated promptly.
As a trusted Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist in Kharadi, Pune, Dr. Shipra Kunwar specializes in the diagnosis and management of ectopic pregnancies, ensuring patient safety through timely and effective treatment.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity. The most common site is the fallopian tube (tubal pregnancy), but it can also occur in the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix.
Sharp abdominal or pelvic pain
Vaginal bleeding (different from normal periods)
Shoulder tip pain (due to internal bleeding)
Dizziness or fainting (sign of internal bleeding)
Missed periods with pregnancy symptoms
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications like rupture and internal hemorrhage.
Diagnosis involves a combination of:
Physical examination
Ultrasound (transvaginal preferred)
Blood tests (Beta-hCG levels)
If ectopic pregnancy is suspected, Dr. Shipra Kunwar ensures swift diagnostic procedures to confirm the condition and plan the best treatment approach.
The management of ectopic pregnancy depends on several factors:
Size and location of the ectopic pregnancy
Patient's symptoms
hCG hormone levels
Overall health condition
Whether the tube has ruptured or not
For early, unruptured ectopic pregnancies, Methotrexate is the preferred medical treatment. It is a medication that stops the growth of pregnancy tissue and allows the body to absorb it gradually.
Hemodynamically stable patient
Small ectopic mass (usually <3.5 cm)
No fetal heartbeat detected
Low and declining Beta-hCG levels
No contraindications to Methotrexate
Non-surgical
Preserves the fallopian tube
Short recovery time
Patients require serial Beta-hCG monitoring to ensure complete resolution of the ectopic tissue.
If the ectopic pregnancy is advanced, symptomatic, or if medical treatment fails, surgery becomes necessary.
Minimally invasive procedure
Small incisions with faster recovery
Involves salpingostomy (removing ectopic tissue while preserving the tube) or salpingectomy (removal of the affected tube)
Reserved for emergency situations like rupture or excessive internal bleeding
Requires a longer recovery period
In rare cases, where the ectopic pregnancy is resolving on its own and the patient is asymptomatic, expectant management (watchful waiting) may be considered. Close monitoring of hCG levels and symptoms is essential.
Dr. Shipra Kunwar emphasizes:
“Every case is unique. Our goal is to ensure the patient’s safety, preserve fertility whenever possible, and provide compassionate care during this emotionally difficult time.”
Recovery depends on the type of treatment:
Medical management patients recover faster with minimal downtime.
Surgical patients may need a few weeks for complete recovery.
Additionally, ectopic pregnancy can be emotionally distressing. Dr. Shipra Kunwar and her team provide psychological support and counseling to help patients cope with the experience.
Women can conceive after an ectopic pregnancy, though close monitoring is essential.
The risk of recurrence exists, especially if the underlying causes (like tubal damage or infections) are present.
Preconception counseling and early pregnancy scans are recommended for future pregnancies.
Severe abdominal pain
Heavy vaginal bleeding
Fainting spells or dizziness
Shoulder pain (indicating internal bleeding)
Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that requires timely diagnosis and appropriate management. With advancements in medical and surgical techniques, outcomes are much safer today. Early intervention not only saves lives but also helps in preserving future fertility.
If you suspect any symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy, do not delay seeking expert care. Dr. Shipra Kunwar, with her expertise in women’s health, provides advanced and compassionate care for the management of ectopic pregnancies in Kharadi, Pune.
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