A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF RISK FACTORS, CLINICAL PRESENTATION, OUTCOME OF ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

Introduction: Ectopic pregnancy refers to a pregnancy where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, in a location unsuitable for its growth and development. The significance of ectopic pregnancy has increased due to its rising incidence and its impact on female fertility. It continues to be a major challenge in modern gynecology and is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among women. Methodology: This study is a retrospective analysis of 40 cases of ectopic pregnancy conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Basaveshwara Teaching and General Hospital, Kalaburagi, over a two-year period. The study examined detailed patient histories to identify risk factors, clinical presentations, and outcomes. Results: Out of 3600 confirmed pregnancies during the study period, 40 were ectopic, resulting in an incidence rate of 70% and 30% in the age group of 21-30 years and 31-40 years respectively. Identifiable risk factors were present in 58% of cases, with 26% having a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, 13.3% with infertility, 15% with a history of abortion, 23% with tubectomy, 3% were smokers, and 46% had a previous cesarean section. Among the patients, 16% were primigravida, 83% were multigravida, and 100% presented with amenorrhea. Additionally, 80% reported abdominal pain, 70% experienced vaginal bleeding, 16% had fainting or syncopal episodes, 56% showed signs of pallor, and 5% were in shock. Conservative treatment was administered to 5% of patients, while 95% underwent exploratory laparotomy, and 90% required blood transfusions. Conculsion: Early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is crucial and necessitates a high degree of clinical suspicion, particularly in cases presenting with amenorrhea, abdominal pain, and vaginal bleeding. The importance of timely diagnosis lies in the potential to offer conservative management, which can positively impact the patients future fertility.