What is an ectopic pregnancy?
A day in the life of an OBGYN can be unpredictable, especially when it comes to being on call at the hospital. While many people assume that OBGYNs only deliver babies there are other emergencies that require prompt attention, even in the middle of the night.
One such emergency is an ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus. This type of pregnancy is not compatible with life. This can be a serious condition, as the pregnancy can cause pain, bleeding and other complications. Dr. Glenn shares a story of a patient in her 30s who experienced pain and spotting after missing her period for several weeks. When she went to the ER, an ultrasound revealed that her pregnancy was not in the right place.
Symptoms and treatment options for ectopic pregnancy
There are a few things to know about ectopic pregnancies and how to reduce your risk of a possible life-threatening situation. If you’re pregnant, it’s important to know the symptoms of ectopic pregnancies. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s best to get checked as soon as possible: unusual bleeding or pain.
If you are in early pregnancy (less than 12 weeks) and you obtain an ultrasound that shows no pregnancy in the uterus there are two possibilities – 1. That you are just too early and a pregnancy cannot be seen or 2. The pregnancy is in fact in the wrong location. It is important to follow closely with an OBGYN in this situation because you will require followup blood work and likely an ultrasound. Ectopic pregnancies are tricky and sometimes cannot be seen on ultrasound until the pregnancy grows.
Once the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is made, your OBGYN will discuss with you treatment options. In some cases, medication can be used to treat an ectopic pregnancy. However, if the situation is more severe, surgery may be necessary. As an OBGYN on call at the hospital, Dr. Glenn is responsible for taking the patient to the operating room when needed. One of the most important things that she can do to help reduce the risk of an ectopic pregnancy is to educate women about what to do after testing positive for pregnancy.
What are the causes of ectopic pregnancy?
Causes of ectopic pregnancies can be difficult to determine, but there are a number of factors that can increase a woman’s risk for ectopic pregnancy, including history of ectopic in a previous pregnancy, certain types of birth control, and smoking.
The number one thing you can do to reduce your risk of ectopic pregnancy is to take a pregnancy test after a missed period. If the pregnancy test is positive it is important to see an OBGYN for bloodwork and ultrasound.
How to alleviate complications from ectopic pregnancy
To reduce the risk of complications from an ectopic pregnancy, Dr. Glenn’s number one tip is to get an early ultrasound. If you miss a period, don’t ignore it. Take a pregnancy test and see an OBGYN as soon as possible. It’s better to catch any potential issues early on, rather than waiting until it becomes a full blown life-threatening emergency.
The importance of early detection
Dr. Glenn’s story serves as a reminder of the important work that OBGYNs do at all hours of the day. They are responsible for keeping women safe and ensuring that pregnancies are progressing as they should. By knowing the warning signs, you can take steps to reduce your risk.
The next time you think of an OBGYN, remember that they do more than just delivering babies – they are skilled professionals who are ready to help you through your worse nightmare situations.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into ectopic pregnancies. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and importance of early detection can help prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome. Always remember to listen to your body, take prompt action, and consult your OBGYN when needed. Stay informed, be proactive, and take charge of your reproductive health.
In this video, Dr. Glenn dispels the misconception that OBGYNs are only involved in delivering babies, highlighting that they are often called to handle emergencies such as ectopic pregnancies during the night. She reassures her commitment to keeping women safe and emphasizes the importance of being hyper aware of potential signs of ectopic pregnancy complications.
Dr. Amber Glenn is an exceptionally skilled and compassionate physician dedicated to serving the community of Smyrna, Georgia and surrounding areas. With her extensive knowledge and expertise in Obstetrics & Gynecology, she has become a trusted name in the field. Amber’s commitment to delivering high-quality care is evident through her more than 7 years of experience, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the unique needs and concerns of her patients.