What are the common symptoms of tubal pregnancy?

The primary symptoms of ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tube include abnormal abdominal pain after a missed period, irregular vaginal bleeding, and syncope or shock. Immediate medical attention is required if these symptoms occur. Its early symptoms are difficult to distinguish from those of a normal pregnancy, but as the embryo grows, it may lead to life-threatening tubal rupture or massive hemorrhage, which warrants particular vigilance.

1. Missed Period and Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tube typically presents as a missed period, similar to a normal pregnancy, accompanied by early pregnancy symptoms such as breast tenderness, nausea, and vomiting. However, unlike a healthy pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy may result in irregular vaginal bleeding, which is often dark brown and in small amounts. These symptoms may precede abdominal pain.

2. Abnormal Abdominal Pain

The most typical symptom of ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tube is abdominal pain, usually located on one side of the lower abdomen. The pain is often persistent or intermittent dull pain and may also manifest as stabbing severe pain. As the embryo enlarges, it increases the tension in the fallopian tube and may even cause rupture, leading to intensified pain. Once the fallopian tube ruptures, patients may experience severe tearing pain accompanied by radiating pain in the shoulder and back.

3. Syncope or Shock

As the condition progresses, especially when the fallopian tube ruptures, it can cause hypotension and shock symptoms due to massive hemorrhage, including pallor, cold sweats, rapid heartbeat, and syncope. This situation is particularly dangerous and requires immediate medical attention for rescue.

Medication Therapy

For early-diagnosed ectopic pregnancies in the fallopian tube without severe symptoms, medication therapy is usually an option. Methotrexate (MTX) is a commonly used chemotherapy drug that inhibits embryonic cell division and growth. Patients need to closely monitor their serum β-HCG levels to assess treatment effectiveness.

Surgical Therapy

If the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tube worsen, the tube ruptures, or medication therapy is ineffective, surgical treatment is required. Common surgeries include salpingectomy (for severe tubal rupture), salpingostomy (to preserve the tube), or laparoscopic techniques, which are less invasive and result in quicker recovery.

Postoperative Care and Dietary Adjustment

Postoperative care involves preventing infection and bleeding, adhering to scheduled follow-ups and medication as prescribed. Dietary adjustments include consuming high-protein and iron-rich foods such as lean meat, spinach, and eggs to promote recovery. Vigorous activities should be avoided.

Ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tube is a life-threatening obstetric and gynecological emergency. Vigilance should be heightened, and immediate medical attention should be sought to avoid delays in treatment that could lead to severe consequences. Regular prenatal checkups are particularly important for early diagnosis and prevention.