Apart from an IVF failure, another issue that most couples and fertility experts worry about is an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the transferred embryo is implanted anywhere other than the uterine lining.
In India, the average percentage of IVF cycles that result in IVF pregnancy is about 2–9%. Though this percentage is comparatively low, it is best to always stay on guard and avoid such complications.
In this article, we will look into some ways you can avoid an ectopic pregnancy during IVF, along with its symptoms and causes. This can help you get an idea of the issue and take the necessary measures to avoid it.
What are the ways you can avoid Ectopic Pregnancy With IVF?
An ectopic pregnancy is a complicated issue that can have fatal outcomes like fallopian tube rupture or near-death experiences. If detected, it is essential to terminate the pregnancy and remove the embryo immediately.
Below are some ways you can avoid an ectopic pregnancy from happening in the first place.
Address Tubal Factor Infertility
Most times, in an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo is implanted in the fallopian tubes. This is mostly common in cases of blocked fallopian tubes.
Though IVF completely neglects the fallopian tubes in the procedure, there are chances of an ectopic pregnancy due to this issue. So, ensure you check for any tubal blockage or damage before your IVF treatment.
Identify Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) And Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Before the IVF treatment, your fertility doctor will perform several screening tests on you. These tests are performed to identify issues like Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases (PIDs) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
Identifying and treating these issues before the procedure can help avoid the chances of an ectopic pregnancy.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking has often been associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancies. It can cause inflammation and also alter your hormone levels, affecting ovulation and embryo implantation.
For a successful IVF pregnancy, most doctors recommend both partners quit smoking for at least 3 months before starting the procedure. This can ensure the effects of smoking are completely dispelled from the body.
Increase Uterine Receptivity
Sometimes, if the uterus is not receptive to the embryo, it can pass through the uterus and implant somewhere else. So, before an embryo transfer, the doctors should check uterine receptivity, take measures to make it more receptive, and then transfer the embryos.
Symptoms & Causes Of Ectopic Pregnancy
As discussed earlier, ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening issue that needs to be treated earlier. Here are the symptoms you should look out for if you suspect you have an ectopic pregnancy.
- Vaginal bleeding. Light spotting or heavy bleeding in red or brown color.
- Sharp or dull pelvic pain felt on one side of the lower abdomen.
- Shoulder pain.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Difficulty with bowel movements.
- Dizziness or fainting.
Below are some of the most common causes of an ectopic pregnancy.
- Tubal blockages
- Pelvic inflammatory diseases (PIDs)
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Endometriosis
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Smoking
- Age
Consultation With The Fertility Specialist
An ectopic pregnancy, left unchecked, can lead to serious complications like fallopian tube rupture and life-threatening consequences. After IVF, do not stay idle and go to your fertility doctor.
Ensure you visit the best fertility doctor regularly for routine checkups and monitor your pregnancy. If you find yourself having an ectopic pregnancy or any other complications, immediately take care of it.
Conclusion
There is no definite way you can follow to avoid ectopic pregnancy. You can only lead a healthy lifestyle, follow all your doctor’s instructions, and hope for the best.
However, if you do find yourself having an ectopic pregnancy, don’t panic. Immediately consult your doctor and treat the issue to avoid further complications.
Most times, in an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo is implanted in the fallopian tubes. This is mostly common in cases of blocked fallopian tubes.
Though IVF completely neglects the fallopian tubes in the procedure, there are chances of an ectopic pregnancy due to this issue. So, ensure you check for any tubal blockage or damage before your IVF treatment.
Here are the symptoms you should look out for if you suspect you have an ectopic pregnancy.
- Vaginal bleeding. Light spotting or heavy bleeding in red or brown color.
- Sharp or dull pelvic pain felt on one side of the lower abdomen.
- Shoulder pain.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Difficulty with bowel movements.
- Dizziness or fainting.
Below are some of the most common causes of an ectopic pregnancy.
- Tubal blockages
- Pelvic inflammatory diseases (PIDs)
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Endometriosis
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Smoking
- Age
