Question

Sometimes an ectopic pregnancy occurs outside the woman's uterus. This usually occurs in one of the fallopian tubes. If the embryo continues to grow, it may rupture the tube. What is a sign or symptom of a ruptured fallopian tube?

a) Abdominal pain and tenderness
b) Vaginal bleeding
c) Increased fetal movement
d) Breast tenderness

Answer 1

The sign or symptom of a ruptured fallopian tube due to an ectopic pregnancy is abdominal pain and tenderness. Immediate medical intervention is required, with methotrexate used in early stages and surgical repair needed if the tube has ruptured.

Step-by-step explanation:

A sign or symptom of a ruptured fallopian tube caused by an ectopic pregnancy is abdominal pain and tenderness. Tubal pregnancies, often caused by the presence of scar tissue within the fallopian tube from a previous sexually transmitted bacterial infection, can cause an embryo to implant in the fallopian tube. The growth of the embryo in this location can lead to rupture, which presents with abdominal pain and can be life-threatening, thus requiring immediate medical attention.

Other indicators include vaginal bleeding, shock due to internal bleeding, and severe discomfort. When diagnosed early, a medication called methotrexate can be utilized to halt the development of the embryo. However, in cases where the fallopian tube has ruptured, surgical repair is necessary to address the damage and prevent further complications.