Ectopic Pregnancy

There are a number of risk factors for ectopic pregnancies. However, in as many as one-third to one-half no risk factors can be identified.

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Infertility
• Use Of An Intrauterine Device (Iud)
• Previous Exposure To Diethylstilbestrol (Des)
• Tubal Surgery
• Intrauterine Surgery (E.G. D&C)
• Smoking
• Previous Ectopic Pregnancy
• Endometriosis
• Tubal Ligation

High: Tubal sterilization, IUD, prior ectopic, PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), SIN (salpingitis isthmica nodosa)

Moderate: Smoking, having more than 1 partner, infertility, chlamydia

Low: Douching, age greater than 35, age less than 18, GIFT (gamete intrafallopian transfer)

There's no way to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, but here are some ways to decrease your risk.

• Limiting the number of sexual partners and using a condom during sex helps to prevent sexually transmitted infections and may reduce the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Don't smoke