Ectopic Pregnancy

Question 1

What are the risk factors that may contribute to Ectopic Pregnancy?

Hint: PASSAge is key.

Answer 1

Pregnancy (IUD) and PID

Anatomical defects

STD and Smoking

Sanitising (douching)

Age greater than 35 years

Question 2

Name at least three early signs of ectopic pregnancy

Answer 2

Vaginal spotting

Missed menstrual period

Abdominal or pelvic pain

Question 3

True or False: hCG levels are elevated with ectopic pregnancy

Answer 3

True. hCG levels may still be elevated but lower than with normal pregnancies

Question 4

What signs and symptoms would indicate ruptured ectopic pregnancy (hint: there’s also a mnemonic here).

Answer 4

Pain – referred

Abdominal rigidity – from intraabdominal bleeding

Sudden severe abdominal pain

Shock

Question 5

The woman is asking you if having an ectopic pregnancy means she can never get pregnant again. You know that future pregnancy depends on these factors:

Answer 5

If tube is intact

Early pregnancy - tissue growth not developed

Pregnancy size is less than 3.5 mm

Fetus is not living

Question 6

This is a drug that can be used to inhibit cell growth and treat unruptured ectopic pregnancy

Answer 6

Methotrexate

Question 7

Name three health teaching or instructions that you need to provide for women taking methotrexate

Answer 7

Nausea and vomiting are common and temporary

Report worsening symptoms or signs of ruptured ectopic pregnancy immediately

Avoid alcohol and vitamins containing folic acid as these interfere with action of the drug