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Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy can often be confused with the symptoms of other conditions that affect the abdominal and reproductive organs. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when an embryo attaches to the fallopian tubes or another organ in the abdominal cavity that is not the uterus, such as the ovaries or cervix. When properly detected and diagnosed early, the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy can be treated in order to reduce potentially life threatening maternal health risks.
In the United States approximately 70,000- or one out of every 200 to 250- pregnancies is an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is the leading cause of maternal death in the first trimester and is five times more likely to claim the life of an African American woman compared to a Caucasian woman.
The symptoms of ectopic pregnancy can include any or all of the following: abdominal or pelvic pain which can be so great that a patient cannot even stand up; irregular or excessive vaginal bleeding; lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting; pale, clammy, or sweaty skin, a rapid heart beat; and the early symptoms of pregnancy such as breast tenderness, morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting.
When a woman experiences symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, it is important for her to seek medical attention in order to treat the condition and mitigate the serious risks associated with ectopic pregnancy complications. When a woman shows symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, there are medical tests that can be performed in order to diagnose the condition, including pregnancy tests and an ultrasound.
ecause there are many conditions that have symptoms similar to the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, it is important that medical professionals exhibit a high degree of prudence and care to properly diagnose a woman’s condition. Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are often confused with those of a miscarriage, normal pregnancy (or a heterotopic pregnancy), pelvic inflammatory disease or salpingitis.
There are several factors which can increase a woman’s risk for developing the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy. Previous childbirths, abdominal surgery, pelvic infections, or STDs can increase ectopic pregnancy risks. Other risks can include cigarette smoking and the use of fertility medications.
When a woman presents the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy it is crucial to her health to receive prompt and proper medical attention. Complications from ectopic surgery can cause an inter-abdominal hemorrhage or a tubal rupture, which can lead to maternal death.
Half of all ectopic pregnancy deaths are the result of medical misdiagnosis. When a doctor fails to properly diagnose a patient’s condition in a timely manner, they can be held liable for any injuries or deaths that ensue.
For more information on misdiagnosis of the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, you may wish to contact an attorney.
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