What is an ectopic pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancies can be a serious medical condition that can put the health of the mother at risk. If you are experiencing symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, it is important to seek medical treatment right away.
If you suspect you may be suffering from an ectopic pregnancy you can immediately contact Lotus Medics, as we are able to offer our ectopic pregnancy treatment to patients in Orange, Parkes and Bathurst.
From the moment of conception until delivery, the female body goes through a variety of stages to support a successful pregnancy. For a normal pregnancy, the fertilised egg(after being fertilised in the fallopian tube)is pushed into the uterus and attaches itself for further growth. However, in certain cases, the fertilised egg does not attach itself to the uterus, instead remaining in the fallopian tube, or attaching itself to the abdominal cavity, or cervix.
An ectopic pregnancy typically occurs in early pregnancy, within the first 6-8 weeks of gestation.
This is called an ectopic pregnancy and can be life-threatening if left untreated. To avoid any potential complications, it is important to receive prompt treatment for an ectopic pregnancy, which can increase the chances of a healthy future pregnancy and prevent future health issues.
Causes and risk factors for ectopic pregnancy
The cause and risk factors of an ectopic pregnancy are not always clear. In some cases, the following have been linked with an ectopic pregnancy:
Causes include:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Use of fertility drugs
- Hormonal factors
- Abnormal uterus or fallopian tubes
- Scar tissue in the fallopian tubes due to previous surgeries
- Cigarette smoking
Risk Factors
- Age (Women aged 35 and over are at higher risk)
- Multiple sexual partners
- History of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- History of infertility
- Previous ectopic pregnancy
- History of pelvic/abdominal surgery
How are ectopic pregnancies diagnosed?
Ectopic pregnancies can be diagnosed through a physical exam, a positive pregnancy test via urine testing, blood tests, and an ultrasound. During a physical exam, a doctor may feel the abdomen to check for any tenderness or masses.
Blood tests can be used to measure hormone levels, including hCG, which is a hormone that is produced during pregnancy. A transvaginal ultrasound can also be used to look for an embryo in the uterus.
Ectopic pregnancy treatment in
Parkes, Orange and Bathurst
Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. Treatment typically involves medications or, if the ectopic pregnancy is too advanced, surgery.
Medications
Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug that is commonly used to treat ectopic pregnancies. It works by stopping the growth of the pregnancy and allowing the body to absorb the tissue.
Surgery
If the ectopic pregnancy is too advanced for medication to be effective or if it has ruptured/burst, then surgery may be necessary. This involves removing the ectopic pregnancy from the fallopian tube or, in some cases, removing the entire fallopian tube.
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy
The most common symptom of an ectopic pregnancy may include severe abdominal pain, usually on one side. The following symptoms can also be experienced:
Most women get symptoms in the 6th week of their pregnancy or around 2 weeks after their missed period, but if you have irregular periods or in cases of failed contraception, you may not even know that you are pregnant.
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding – This may be different than your usual period.
- Shoulder pain – this potentially indicates that the ectopic has ruptured and you may be having internal bleeding. You should seek urgent medical advice if you experience this.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low back pain
- Dizziness or fainting – if the ectopic pregnancy bursts or is near to bursting someone may collapse due to pain or internal bleeding
- Painful urination
- Painful bowel movements/diarrhoea
- Weakness
What are the complications
of an ectopic pregnancy
The main complication of an ectopic pregnancy is the risk of the fallopian tube rupturing, which can cause severe internal bleeding and even death.
Other complications can include:
- Infection of the fallopian tube
- Damage to the fallopian tube
- Serious internal bleeding
- Difficulty with future pregnancies
- Infertility
Costs of Ectopic pregnancy treatment
Bathurst, Orange and Parkes
The cost of treatment for an ectopic pregnancy at our Orange, Parkes and Bathurst practices, can vary depending on the severity of the case, the type of treatment and the hospital or clinic you choose to have a procedure if it is deemed necessary.
Additional costs may be incurred if you need to stay in the hospital afterwards or if you require additional tests or medications.
It is important to book a consultation with Dr Kotasthane as soon as possible if you suspect an ectopic pregnancy:
Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information on our pricing. You can also visit our costs page on our website for more information.
How Lotus Medics can help with ectopic pregnancy treatment
At Lotus Medics, we understand the physical and psychological impact an ectopic pregnancy can have on you, and our team is dedicated to providing the best possible care. Our team includes experienced OBGYN and support staff to ensure you receive the best possible treatment.
We offer a range of treatment options, including medication-based treatments, and laparoscopic surgery (keyhole surgery) to ensure the best possible outcome for you. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you.
Meet Dr Sachin Kotasthane
Dr Sachin Kotasthane, due to his experience and training, is able to offer comprehensive care for women that may require ectopic pregnancy treatment.
Where to find ectopic pregnancy treatment
in Orange, Parkes and Bathurst?
Bathurst Specialist Centre
Building 1470, Panorama Ave, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst NSW, Australia 2795
Orange
Bloomfield Medical Campus Level 2/1521 Forest Rd, Orange NSW 2800
Parkes
Ochre Health Medical Centre 335 Clarinda St, Parkes NSW 2870
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common treatment for ectopic pregnancy?
Other treatments may include medications to stop the growth of the pregnancy or an injection of methotrexate to dissolve the tissue.
How long is methotrexate treatment for ectopic pregnancy?
Should I go to the ER if I think I have an ectopic pregnancy?
Will I be able to get pregnant after surgery for ectopic pregnancy?
However, it is very important that you have an early pregnancy scan in your subsequent pregnancies to ensure the pregnancy is growing in the correct position
Can blood tests diagnose an ectopic pregnancy?
How to schedule an appointment
or emailing us at info@lotusmedics.com.au. You can also book online via our online form.
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