How to Avoid Ectopic Pregnancy with IVF

For couples who cannot achieve normal pregnancy, in vitro fertilization is among the best options. However, no assisted reproductive technology is devoid of risks and one such complication is ectopic pregnancy. Most people don’t know about ectopic pregnancy, its symptoms, and how it can impact their pregnancy. So, in this detailed guide, let us delve deep into ectopic pregnancy’s causes and signs. We will also tell you how to avoid ectopic pregnancy with IVF. So, if you are undergoing IVF or thinking of opting for IVF, stay tuned till the end.

Ectopic Pregnancy: An Overview

In simple words, it is a type of pregnancy in which the development of the fetus takes place not in the uterus but outside it. So, the cervix or the ovaries become pregnant during ectopic pregnancy.

But the fallopian tubes or the cervix are not equipped for carrying a fetus and so, it becomes important to end an ectopic pregnancy. Fortunately, precautions can be taken to avoid this serious condition.

What Is the Cause of Ectopic Pregnancy?

An IVF treatment involves several stages such as stimulating the ovaries, collecting eggs, and fertilizing the eggs in the lab. Once the eggs are fertilized, they placed into the womb again. But how do these processes increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy? Scroll down to find out.

As opposed to natural conception, during IVF, the embryos cannot be naturally guided through a woman’s fallopian tubes. So, when the embryo transfer takes place in this manner, there is some risk of ectopic pregnancy. If multiple embryos are transferred, the risk also increases. This is one of the common causes and that explains why many fertility treatment centers are now advocating for the transfer of a single fertilized embryo.

Ectopic pregnancies occur when the fertilized egg attaches itself outside the uterus. While IVF treatments lower the chances compared to natural conception, it’s still essential to take precautions. Here’s what you need to know:

Signs of Ectopic Pregnancy after IVF

Some people experience some early symptoms of ectopic pregnancy. These include vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. Some other signs are:

contractions
abdominal pain
a missed period
pain in the shoulder’s tip
discomfort when pooping or peeing

How Is Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?

If you are experiencing the above-mentioned symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, your doctor might suggest the following tests to diagnose if ectopic pregnancy is causing the symptoms. The tests are:

Laparoscopy
Ultrasound
Laparoscopy
Blood Tests

If the diagnosis confirms someone is experiencing ectopic pregnancy, it should not be left untreated.

How to Avoid Ectopic Pregnancy with IVF?

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious concern, especially for those undergoing IVF (In Vitro Fertilization). It occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tubes, making it a life-threatening condition. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to minimize the risk of ectopic pregnancy during IVF.

1. Treat STIs

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy by damaging the fallopian tubes. Timely treatment is crucial to mitigate this risk.

Diagnosis: Regular screenings for STIs, especially before IVF.
Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Follow-up: Continuous monitoring to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

Sadly, many people feel embarrassed to visit a doctor for STIs. But now you know that timely treatment of STIs from a reputed fertility clinic becomes critical to keep ectopic pregnancy IVF at bay. Also, if you practice safe sex, STIs won’t bother you.

2. Quit Smoking

Any individual planning a pregnancy knows that smoking is extremely harmful. However, you will be surprised to discover that this habit does not just lower the fertility levels in men and women but also doubles ectopic pregnancy’s risk.

Smoking significantly impacts fertility and increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Quitting smoking before starting IVF can lower this risk.

Immediate Steps: Consider nicotine replacement therapies or professional counseling.
Long-Term Plan: Maintain a smoke-free lifestyle, with regular check-ins with a healthcare provider.

3. Treat Intraperitoneal Sperm Transmigration

It is a medical ailment that happens if sperm fertilizes a mature egg outside the endometrial or uterine lining. Despite being a spontaneous illness, it mostly affects women who have clogged or ruptured fallopian tubes.

Prevention: Thorough medical evaluation before IVF to identify potential risks.
Treatment: In certain cases, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) may be recommended.

4. Single Embryo Transfer

Transferring a single embryo during IVF reduces the risk of ectopic pregnancy compared to multiple embryo transfers.

Why It Matters: The risk of ectopic pregnancy increases with the number of embryos transferred.
Consultation: Discuss the best strategy with your fertility specialist based on your case.

5. Eat Nutrient-rich Meals

Some studies have revealed that exercising daily and eating well can significantly reduce the chances of ectopic pregnancy. One excellent food to prevent ectopic pregnancy is avocado. You should also increase the consumption of foods rich in folic acid to maintain good folate levels.

6. Monitoring and Early Diagnosis

Early symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, such as pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding, should not be ignored. Immediate medical attention can prevent complications.

Diagnostic Tools: Blood tests, ultrasounds, and laparoscopy are essential for early detection.
Treatment Options: Depending on the timing and severity, treatment may include medication or surgery.

What Are the Chances of Ectopic Pregnancy in IVF?

Ectopic pregnancies in IVF are rare, with an incidence of about 2-5%, but certain factors like age, prior health conditions, and multiple embryo transfers can influence this risk. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions during your IVF journey.

Can I Get Pregnant after Ectopic Pregnancy?

Any woman who has experienced ectopic pregnancy in the past can have a successful pregnancy. With an early diagnosis, the treatment will be effective. In some cases, methotrexate is administered. Surgical intervention might be necessary in other cases.

The chance of it occurring again is less than 10%. So, once your ectopic pregnancy is treated, you can plan a baby again. Just make sure you get in touch with a good fertility clinic that has accomplished doctors who can assist you in your IVF journey.

If you are concerned about the scar resulting from an ectopic pregnancy operation, you can apply avocado oil or coconut oil regularly to make it less visible.

How to Get Pregnant Fast after Ectopic Pregnancy?

Your doctor will advise you to wait for at least 3 months as your body needs some time to recover completely after experiencing an ectopic pregnancy. The chances of getting pregnant after 2 years is around 85%. To quickly get pregnant, you should find an experienced doctor. Additionally, stay away from alcohol, cigarettes, processed food, and junk food. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle after ectopic pregnancy, your wish to be a mother will transform into a reality.

The Takeaway

Reducing the risk of ectopic pregnancy during IVF involves proactive measures such as treating STIs, quitting smoking, and considering single embryo transfers. Regular monitoring and early diagnosis are critical to ensuring a safe and successful pregnancy. Just take the preventive steps recommended by your fertility specialist to reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Even if you have an ectopic pregnancy, stay positive and commence the ectopic pregnancy treatment at the earliest. After medical intervention, your body will again be ready to undergo another IVF cycle.

Read to know more: Ovum Pick Up Procedure

Dr Ritu Agarwal

Dr. Ritu Agarwal is an appreciated IVF expert in Jaipur for IVF therapy, owing to her more than ten years of experience in this field. She is the top IVF specialist in Jaipur who makes every attempt to provide correct counseling and emotional support to patients in order to help them find the ideal solution for becoming parents.