What is an ectopic pregnancy?
Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized oocyte implants at a site other than the uterus. In majority it is found in the fallopian tube but can happen at other sites like the ovary, abdomen or cervix. Moreover, this condition is a dangerous situation in a woman’s life as it can cause life threatening bleeding.
Why does tubal ectopic pregnancy occur?
Fallopian tube facilitates fertilization of egg and sperm in females. Accordingly, it is designed to carry out transport of egg and fertilized embryos. Any alteration of this normal process can arrest the migration of embryos and lead to ectopic implantation.
On the other hand, this highly delicate procedure of embryo transportation depends upon the small hairy surface of tubal lining. In addition, the muscles of the fallopian tube contract and help in movement of the embryo.
Also, the hairy surface of the tube has a smooth wavy movement directed by chemical signals from the embryo. Damage to the ciliary surface of fallopian tube can occur due to
- Infections
- Toxins from smoking
- Immunological causes
- Hormonal alterations