Article Abstract:
Methotrexate can be used instead of surgery to treat ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo implants in the Fallopian tubes instead of of the uterus. Drug therapy can preserve the Fallopian tubes so the woman can attempt pregnancy again in the future.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
A single dose of methotrexate was a successful treatment for unruptured ectopic pregnancy in 113 out of 120 patients studied. Four patients required a second dose of methotrexate to resolve the pregnancy and seven eventually needed surgery. An ectopic pregnancy is one that is implanted outside the uterus. The rupture of an ectopic pregnancy can be life threatening. Patients with ectopic pregnancies were first diagnosed through blood tests. They then had ultrasounds to locate the pregnancy and to ensure that it had not ruptured. Curettage, or the removal of tissue from the uterus for microscopic examination, was done if indicated to rule out a viable uterine pregnancy. Patients were eligible for drug therapy if the ectopic pregnancy was smaller than or equal to 3.5 centimeters. Resolution of the pregnancy took approximately 35.5 days. Of the 49 patients who later desired pregnancy, 39 became pregnant.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
High blood levels of chorionic gonadotropin may inhibit the action of the drug methotrexate in the treatment of tubal pregnancies. A tubal pregnancy occurs when the embryo implants in the Fallopian tube instead of the uterus. Methotrexate causes the embryo to be aborted or resorbed into the body. In a study of 350 women who received methotrexate to induce an abortion, 91% aborted the embryo. Those who did not had higher levels of chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone secreted during pregnancy.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic: