When early signs of pregnancy are followed by confirmation from the doctor, there is joy in the hearts of any couple. For most women, the pregnancy will be very normal. A healthy baby will grow inside the mother’s womb for nine months before venturing out into the world to join the parents.

It does not always go this perfectly. There are unfortunate cases where the baby is growing not inside, but outside of the uterus. This is called a tubal pregnancy.

Doctors will also refer to this as an ectopic pregnancy. This term is used to describe a baby that is not growing in the right place. This situation will usually occur in the fallopian tubes, but in some cases may also occur in the abdomen, cervix, or ovaries.

The danger with this situation results from the fact that none of these alternate places in the body can sustain the development of a baby. Without proper treatment, the mother's life may be in danger due to extensive bleeding.

This potential life-threatening problem of a tubal pregnancy can not be detected in the early signs of pregnancy. It is only after a few months, when the baby is growing, that it can be discovered.

However, in addition to the normal early signs of pregnancy, should the expectant mother suffer from low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, or pain in the lower back or chest, it is strongly recommended that an appointment with the doctor be scheduled to make sure everything is fine.

At this appointment, the doctor will use a blood test as the first indicator of any potential problem. It is quite likely, that an ultrasound will follow. A culdoncentesis may be necessary; this test requires a needle to be inserted into the top of the vagina and behind the uterus. This test will determine if there is blood present in the area, usually caused by a ruptured ectopic pregnancy.

Should this be the case, the options are limited. The tubal pregnancy must be terminated. If the problem was discovered early enough in the pregnancy, a drug called Methotrexate may to used to dissolve the egg. Should the problem have been discovered at a later stage in the pregnancy a laparoscopy may be necessary to provide the surgeon with a clearer view of the abdomen and pelvis. The laparoscopy is performed with small incisions, and the ectopic pregnancy can be removed with this procedure.

Women who have had the experience of a tubal pregnancy can bear a child again in the future. However, it is important to wait a few months to allow the tissues in the body to heal, before trying again.

Unfortunately, modern medicine is not capable of preventing tubal pregnancy. So what should a person do if the fetus must be aborted to save the life of the mother?

First, the individual should be reminded that they can try again. It is still quite possible to enjoy a normal pregnancy. This may be hard to accept especially if this is the expectant mother's first child.

Second, the spouse, family members, and friends should all provide as much emotional support as possible after what has happened. There are support groups available, but nothing can benefit more then the words and actions of those closest in the person’s life.

Third, the patient should begin to accept reality and begin to move on. Tubular pregnancy may occur at any age, no matter if the woman is in her 20’s or 40’s. The use of fertility drugs, along with a diet that promotes hormonal balance, and overall good health, may increase the chances of a normal pregnancy.

Tubal pregnancy may be rare but it does happen. The patient can be sure that her doctors will do everything possible to save the mother and the fetus.