Ectopic Pregnancy and IVF: Risks, Diagnosis & Prevention

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. This is a potentially life-threatening condition requiring prompt medical attention.

Why It Matters in IVF

While IVF is designed to place embryos directly into the uterus, there’s still a small chance of an ectopic pregnancy. Let’s understand how and why this can happen.

IVF Procedure

During IVF, fertilized embryos are transferred into the uterus. However, if the fallopian tubes are damaged or if embryo migration occurs, there’s a risk of ectopic implantation.

Risk Factors

• History of tubal surgery or infections
• Previous ectopic pregnancies
• Endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Use of fertility drugs

Diagnosis

Early ultrasound and blood tests (like hCG monitoring) help confirm whether the pregnancy is correctly located inside the uterus or is ectopic.

Treatment Options

• Medication: Methotrexate is commonly used to stop ectopic tissue growth if detected early.
• Surgery: Laparoscopic surgery may be needed if the fallopian tube has ruptured or the pregnancy is advanced.

Preventive Measures

• Careful embryo placement during IVF
• Screening for tubal abnormalities before treatment
• Close monitoring post-embryo transfer

Final Thoughts

Though the risk of ectopic pregnancy during IVF is low, being aware of the signs and working closely with your fertility specialist ensures timely intervention and safety throughout your reproductive journey.