Ectopic pregnancy is a condition where the fertilized egg is not attached to the uterus and instead gets attached to the fallopian tube, abdominal cavity, or cervix.

Fertilized egg normally travels and attaches to the uterus for proper growth. However, in case of an ectopic pregnancy embryo fails to grow properly due to the position of fertilised egg.

According to studies, the chances of occurrence of ectopic pregnancy is 1 in 50.

This condition is caused due to various reasons like infection in the fallopian tubes leading to partial or complete obstruction, old surgical scar tissue blocking the movement of the egg, past pelvic surgeries resulting in adhesion, birth defects or abnormal growths affecting the shape of a fallopian tube.  

Females between 35-44 years of age and history of ectopic pregnancy are at the higher risk of this condition. The other factors include pelvic or abdominal surgery in past, pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID), and history of abortions.

Smoking, endometriosis, fertility medicines and treatments can also up the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Symptoms include sharp abdominal or pelvic pain at a variable frequency, vaginal bleeding, gastrointestinal signs and weariness.

If the pain is severe and lasts more than a few minutes along with vaginal bleeding, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention. Treatment options vary from giving medication to urgent surgeries based on the severity of the case.