Treatment of Ectopic Pregnancy
The treatment of ectopic pregnancy depends on how far the pregnancy has progressed, the woman’s overall health, and whether there are signs of rupture. Since ectopic pregnancy cannot develop into a viable pregnancy, treatment always involves ending the pregnancy to protect the woman’s health and life.
There are three main approaches to treatment:
Expectant management – watching and waiting
Medication – medical treatment with methotrexate
Surgery – laparoscopic or open surgery to remove the pregnancy
Expectant management may be used when hCG levels are very low, and the pregnancy appears to be ending naturally. In these cases, doctors monitor blood hormone levels over time. If the levels continue to fall and the woman has no symptoms, no further action may be needed.
Methotrexate is the most common medical treatment for ectopic pregnancy. This medication stops the cells of the developing embryo from dividing, allowing the body to absorb the pregnancy tissue naturally. Methotrexate is given as an injection and is effective when the pregnancy is small and has not ruptured. After treatment, blood tests are done regularly to confirm that hCG levels are falling.
Surgical treatment is required if the fallopian tube has ruptured or if the woman is in severe pain. The most common procedure is laparoscopic surgery, where a small camera and instruments are inserted through tiny incisions. The surgeon either removes the ectopic pregnancy (salpingostomy) or the entire affected fallopian tube (salpingectomy), depending on the extent of damage.
If the patient is unstable or there is a lot of internal bleeding, emergency open surgery may be needed.
Treatment of Ectopic Pregnancy
In South Africa, access to methotrexate and timely laparoscopic surgery may be limited in public hospitals. As a result, many women only receive care after the condition has advanced. Improving early detection and access to medication can reduce the need for emergency surgery.
After treatment, women are advised to wait at least three months before trying to conceive again, especially if methotrexate was used. Follow-up care includes physical recovery, monitoring of hormone levels, and emotional support.
The treatment of ectopic pregnancy is highly effective when given early. With proper care, most women recover well and can go on to have healthy future pregnancies.
[Next: Complications of Ectopic Pregnancy →]
