How do I know if I’m at risk of an ectopic pregnancy?

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How do I know if I’m at risk of an ectopic pregnancy?

There are several risk factors that could increase your chance of developing an ectopic pregnancy. A risk factor is a trait or behavior that increases your chance for developing a disease or condition. You may be at a higher risk of developing an ectopic pregnancy if you’ve had:

  • A previous ectopic pregnancy.
  • A history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection that can cause scar tissue to form in your fallopian tubes, uterus, ovaries and cervix.
  • Surgery on your fallopian tubes (including tubal ligation, also referred to as having your tubes tied) or on the other organs of your pelvic area.
  • A history of infertility.
  • Treatment for infertility with in vitro fertilization (IVF).
  • Endometriosis.
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • An intrauterine device (IUD), a form of birth control, in place at the time of conception.
  • A history of smoking.

Your risk can also increase as you get older. Women over age 35 are more at risk than younger women.

Many women who experience an ectopic pregnancy don’t have any of the above risk factors.

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