An extrauterine pregnancy after IVF

Modern methods of artificial fertilization are effective in most cases of infertility. The most common method today is IVF, but specialists can detect symptoms of an extrauterine pregnancy even after this procedure. In this article, we will talk about the reasons for this situation, the consequences and further actions.

An extrauterine pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg does not enter the uterine cavity. During natural conception, an egg is fertilized by a sperm in the fallopian tube, which then moves to the uterus for several days. It does not always reach the right place; pathology develops when this occurs.

The question arises why an extrauterine pregnancy is technically possible during IVF since, with this method, an embryo is placed into the uterus. Unfortunately, even if all the necessary protocols are followed, an embryo can settle on neighbouring organs (ovaries or tubes). For some time, an embryo will develop, but with an increase in size, there will not be enough space for it, and it will not be possible to save it. The likelihood of this happening after IVF is just 5–6%.

Can an extrauterine pregnancy after IVF occur in a completely healthy woman?

This is unlikely. Such pathologies occur in the presence of inflammatory processes in the uterus and other diseases of the reproductive system. If an extrauterine pregnancy develops, there is a risk of internal bleeding due to embryo enlargement. Symptoms of the pathology are spotting, pain in the lower abdomen and increased levels of hCG (a hormone that appears in the body during pregnancy). At the first signs, urgent hospitalization and surgical intervention are necessary since the fetus cannot develop outside the uterus.