Ectopic pregnancy: an observational study in a tertiary care centre of Southern Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Background: One among the three chief obstetric causes of bleeding in first trimester, ectopic pregnancy is the first thing to rule out as a gestation is suspected. The present study observes and analyses sociodemographic distribution, risk factors, presentation, diagnosis and treatment modalities in a tertiary care centre.Methods: An observational cross-sectional study, conducted among patients who were diagnosed and managed in department of obstetrics and gynaecology of a tertiary care centre. Data analyzed and explained as frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation.Results: Age group between 21 to 30 years (69.9%) and multigravida (68.5%) are high risk for ectopic pregnancy (EP). Menstrual history was regular in 86.3%. Risk factors identified were previous abortion (30%) and history of pelvic inflammatory disease (30%). In 80.9% pain in abdomen was presenting complaints followed by bleeding per vaginum (60%), amenorrhoea (60%) and nausea and vomiting (32.9%). Right salpingectomy was most common in 43.8%, followed by left salpingectomy in 28.8%, methotrexate in 15.1%, left salpingo-ophorectomy in 5.5%, right salpingo-opherectomy in 5.5% and removal of tubal abortion in 1.3% patients. Laparoscopy was chosen route in majority 64.4% patients.Conclusions: Ectopic pregnancy - a gynecological catastrophe as well as a major challenge to the reproductive performance of women worldwide, should be considered a relevant public health issue. By providing adequate materials, manpower, well-equipped health facilities as well as a prompt and efficient referral system, good access roads and efficient transportation, will ensure early presentation in hospitals and prompt management of cases.

Study of the diagnosis and management of ectopic pregnancy in a rural medical college and hospital

“…Incidence in the age group was found to be 68.18% between the ages 26-30 years, comparable to Paramar et al (69%). 10 Highest incidence was seen between the age 26-30 years, because most Indian women marry and completes their family at an early age so these are the peak reproductive years in which women are exposed to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), abortion, sepsis in the puerperium.…”

“…Multigravida were found to be maximum 68.18% comparable to Paramar et al (68.15%). 10 The higher incidence in multigravidae may be due to previous miscarriages or infections resulting in tubal damage.…”