Ectopic pregnancy.

One out of every 100 to 300 pregnancies is ectopic, and the prevalence is increasing. The classic triad of symptoms; amenorrhea, abdominal pain, and abnormal bleeding, varies greatly among individuals, and ectopic pregnancies frequently are confused with other conditions, such as ovarian cyst, pelvic inflammatory disease, and spontaneous abortion. Ruptured ectopic pregnancies cause hemorrhage and shock and are the leading cause of maternal mortality in the first trimester. Although conservation surgery and tuboplasty have improved the fertility outlook of the ectopic patient, only one-third of such women will be delivered of a live baby. In this overview of ectopic pregnancy, the etiology, symptoms, physical findings, and management/treatment are presented.