Heterotopic pregnancy
Content provided by Healthwise
Heterotopic pregnancy
A woman with a heterotopic pregnancy has one embryo (or more) growing inside the uterus, and one embryo (or more) growing outside of the uterus. Like any ectopic pregnancy, an embryo growing in the cervix, a fallopian tube, or against the outside wall of the uterus can be dangerous for the mother, and must be removed.
Early in a heterotopic pregnancy, the ectopic embryo(s) can be easily overlooked, because there are clear signs of pregnancy in the uterus. That is why it is common for the first sign to be pain from a rupture of a fallopian tube or the cervix.
Overall, heterotopic pregnancies are not common. They are most common in women who have used assisted reproductive technology (ART) to become pregnant.
Credits
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Last Updated | June 6, 2007 |
| Last updated: | June 06, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Ralph Poore |
| Reviewed By: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine, Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Editors: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
