1. Avoid unhygienic or overly frequent sexual intercourse among women of childbearing age
Unhygienic sexual behavior refers to sexual activity without proper hygiene practices, having multiple sexual partners, or sexual contact that transmits sexually transmitted diseases. Overly frequent sex means intercourse more than three times a week.
Both situations may trigger infectious conditions such as vaginitis and salpingitis. Once genital infection spreads to the fallopian tubes, it impairs the tubes’ structure and function of transporting fertilized eggs, which may result in ectopic pregnancy.
2. Adopt reliable contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy
- Barrier contraception: Use contraceptive devices throughout the entire sexual process. Sperm may already exist in male prostatic fluid at the early stage of intercourse; unprotected exposure to such fluid raises the risk of unintended pregnancy and even ectopic pregnancy.
- Emergency oral contraceptives: Not recommended for routine use. Contraceptive failure after taking emergency pills significantly increases the odds of ectopic pregnancy, and frequent use disrupts menstrual cycles.
- Rhythm method: Carries an extremely high failure rate and is not advised.
3. Strict contraception for women with a history of fallopian tube surgery or previous ectopic pregnancy
Such patients face a 10% risk of recurrent ectopic pregnancy. Those planning to conceive are advised to consult a gynecologist in advance to lower the recurrence risk.
Warning: Seek immediate care for abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding after conception
Classic signs of ectopic pregnancy include missed periods, lower abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding.
Women with regular menstrual cycles should suspect pregnancy once menstruation is delayed. From the first day of the last menstrual period, all women should attend hospital examinations between the 6th and 8th week of gestation, with or without other symptoms. Pelvic ultrasound and serum HCG testing assist early diagnosis and timely treatment. Extra close monitoring is required for women with prior ectopic pregnancy due to high recurrence risk.