What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy is a potentially dangerous complication that requires medical attention. Here's more information on extrauterine pregnancy.
Transcript: What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Ovulation
During ovulation, an ovum, or egg, is released from a woman's ovary each month. Fimbriae, small finger-like projections at the end of the fallopian tube, capture the egg and direct it inside. It is here, inside the fallopian tube, where conception usually occurs.Fertilization
Sperm travel through the female reproductive system and into the fallopian tube, where they eventually join the egg. Only one sperm can fertilize the egg. The newly fertilized egg then travels along the fallopian tube toward the uterus, where it can implant and develop until birth.What Happens During an Ectopic Pregnancy?
In some cases, however, complications may cause the egg to implant in areas other than the uterine lining. Such an occurrence is known as an extrauterine or ectopic pregnancy. Although the majority of ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tubes, they can also develop in the abdomen, ovaries, or the cervix.Effects of an Ectopic Pregnancy
If the pregnancy continues without intervention, it could cause the fallopian tube to rupture, resulting in life-threatening intraabdominal bleeding. Because of this risk, an ectopic pregnancy is considered a medical emergency and immediate medical attention is required.Copyrighted animations provided by Blausen Medical.