Student study notes from paramedic coursework (2023 to 2024), not medical advice. Verify clinical values against current references and your local protocols.
| EMS etiologies | Setting: OB/GYN |
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside of the normal implantation areas of the uterus. The ectopic pregnancy most often occurs in a fallopian tube(aka a tubal pregnancy). An ectopic pregnancy can occur in other areas of the body, such as the ovary, abdominal cavity or the lower part of the uterus (cervix), which connects to the vagina.
With ectopic preganancy, the fertilized egg can’t survive, and the growing tissue may cause life-threatening bleeding.
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy may include:
Ectopic pregnancies are diagnosed with pregnancy tests, pelvic exams and ultrasound. Treatment includes medical interventions (similar to elective abortion) or laparoscopic surgery - especially when internal bleeding is suspected.