Ectopic Pregnancy: A Life‑threatening Gynaecological Emergency Revisited in Lagos, Southwest, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Extrauterine gestation is still a major gynaecological in our environment. While routine early diagnosis of pregnancy and
conservative management has remarkably improved the outlook in developed countries, delay in presentation and management are some of the reasons why ectopic pregnancy (EP) is a significant cause of maternal mortality in low‑ and middle‑income countries.

Aim: This study aims to find out the incidence, mode of presentation, and modalities of management of EP in a Nigerian tertiary  health‑care facility.

Materials and Methods: The hospital records of 225 clients, who were diagnosed of extrauterine gestation from  January 2017 to December 2021 at our facility, were reviewed. Results: The incidence of EP was 2.3%. Previous induced abortion(s), pelvic inflammatory disease, as well as nulliparity were the most significant risk factors. Abdominal pain (87.9%), amenorrhea (65.9%), and abnormal vaginal  bleeding (59.3%) were the most common presenting symptoms. We had one maternal mortality during the period under review. 

Conclusion: Extrauterine gestation still presents as a major public health challenge among women of reproductive age groups in our  environment. Therefore, a high index of suspicion and awareness by the medical practitioners with public enlightenment campaigns and  health education should be directed to women of reproductive age on the possible risk factors and dangers of EP.