According to the Ministry of Health, every year in Brazil, more than 150,000 cases of ectopic pregnancy are recorded—a disorder that occurs when the fertilized egg implants and develops outside the uterine cavity.
+ Megan Fox revealed that she had an ectopic pregnancy several years before experiencing a miscarriage.
Nearly 1% of the female population in Brazil is affected by this condition. Although the number seems low, it’s important to diagnose the anomaly as soon as the first symptoms appear to preserve women’s health.
“Gynecologist and obstetrician Domingos Mantelli warns: ‘The quicker an ectopic pregnancy is identified, the lower the risk of potential complications to women’s health,’ according to information from ‘Women’s Health’. If the fertilized egg remains outside the uterus for too long, it can damage women’s organs and pose a life-threatening risk.
What are the signs of an ectopic pregnancy?
Though uncomfortable, the signs of this problem can go unnoticed. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to the main signs listed by Mantelli indicating the presence of an ectopic pregnancy.
• Severe abdominal pain and strong pelvic pain—especially between 6 and 8 weeks after the last menstruation;
• Swollen and very sensitive breasts;
• Extreme feeling of fatigue;
• Light vaginal bleeding;
• Nausea, dizziness, and lightheadedness.
“If some of the listed indicators are identified, it’s important to consult with a physician to further evaluate the situation,” concludes the gynecologist. In early stages, treatment can be done through medications, but when the situation complicates, even surgery might be necessary.
