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Expert Q&A

	By Traci Kurtzer Obstetrician and Gynecologist

I recently had an ectopic pregnancy . Now I hear that it can happen again. Is it true, and how can I prevent it? What can I do to have a normal pregnancy next time? What is wrong with me where is the problem?

Most ectopic pregnancies occur when the fertilized egg does not continue moving through the fallopian tube into the uterus. The fertilized egg then implants in the limited space of the tube, and with growth of the fetal tissue, can cause the tube to swell and rupture. Tubal rupture is very dangerous, as it causes internal bleeding and is a leading reason for emergency surgery and death in early pregnancy. A woman can still have a normal pregnancy after having an ectopic pregnancy, as long as at least one fallopian tube is open and not scarred. If both tubes are blocked, severely scarred or were surgically removed, then a woman cannot get pregnant without assistance from a fertility specialist. A woman is at much higher risk for having another ectopic pregnancy if she has ever had one before. That is why it is important to notify your obstetrician as soon as you suspect pregnancy, so that he may order tests and monitor you closely to make sure you do not have another ectopic.

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