An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus — most commonly in a fallopian tube. It cannot continue and can be life-threatening if not treated. This guide explains what to watch for, how treatment works, and what the situation looks like in Kenya.
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. The most common site is the fallopian tube. Because the pregnancy cannot grow normally outside the womb, it poses serious risks to the woman and requires prompt medical care.
Why does it happen?
Several factors can increase the risk:
- Previous ectopic pregnancy.
- Damage to the fallopian tubes from infection, surgery, or endometriosis.
- Certain fertility treatments
- Smoking .
- In many cases, no risk factor is identified
How common is ectopic pregnancy in Kenya?
Key Kenya statistics:
- According to the Saving Mothers Lives Report (2017), ectopic pregnancy accounted for about 5% of maternal deaths among women whose pregnancies ended in abortive outcomes.
- In 2014, pregnancies with abortive outcomes (including ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and unsafe abortion) were responsible for 8.3% of maternal deaths in Kenya.
- Region-specific reviews have reported deaths from ectopic pregnancy, underlining the importance of early diagnosis and care.
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms usually appear in the first trimester (around 6–8 weeks) and can include:
- Sharp or one-sided abdominal pain.
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding.
- Dizziness, fainting or feeling very weak.
- Shoulder pain (may signal internal bleeding.
If you have these symptoms and a positive pregnancy test — seek emergency care immediately.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the size, location, and stability of the patient:
Medication — Methotrexate
When detected early and the patient is stable, a single intramuscular injection of methotrexate may be used to stop the pregnancy cells from growing. Follow-up β-hCG blood tests are required until levels return to non-pregnant values.
Surgery
When the ectopic pregnancy is large, ruptured, or causing internal bleeding, surgery is urgently required. Procedures include salpingostomy (removing the pregnancy from the tube) or salpingectomy (removal of the affected tube). Emergency surgery is life-saving in these cases.
Can it be prevented?
You cannot always prevent an ectopic pregnancy, but you can reduce some risks by:
- Treating reproductive tract infections early.
- Stopping smoking.
- Attending regular reproductive health check-ups.
What to expect after treatment
With early detection and proper care, most women recover fully. Follow-up care is important to ensure hormone levels fall and to monitor for complications. Future pregnancy is still possible for many women; discuss fertility concerns with your healthcare provider.
Our message to women
An ectopic pregnancy is not your fault. It is a medical condition that requires prompt attention. If you or someone you know has symptoms suggestive of an ectopic pregnancy, seek care immediately.
Contact us: kenyawomenforwomen@gmail.com
Phone: 0700811528
Sources: Saving Mothers Lives (Kenya), national maternal death reviews and regional case reports. Statistics referenced are from public reports; where more recent national data is available, we will update this page
