A tubal pregnancy – the most common type of ectopic pregnancy – happens when a fertilised egg gets stuck on its way to the uterus, often because the fallopian tube is damaged by inflammation or is misshapen.
Hormonal imbalances or abnormal development of the fertilised egg might also play a role. Some things that make you more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy are: Previous ectopic pregnancy.
If you’ve had this type of pregnancy before, you’re more likely to have another. Inflammation or infection. S3xually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia, can cause inflammation in the tubes and other nearby organs, and increase your risk of an ectopic pregnancy. Fertility treatments.
Some research suggests that women who have IVF or similar treatments are more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy. Infertility itself may also raise your risk. Tubal surgery. Surgery to correct a closed or damaged fallopian tube can increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy. Choice of birth control. The chance of getting pregnant while using an intrauterine device (IUD) is rare.
However, if you do get pregnant with an IUD in place, it’s more likely to be ectopic. Tubal ligation, a permanent method of birth control commonly known as ‘having your tubes tied’, also raises your risk if you become pregnant after this procedure. Smoking.
Cigarette smoking just before you get pregnant can increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy. The more you smoke, the greater the risk. 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. If you do, quit before you try to get pregnant.