Ectopic pregnancy: an 11-year review in a tertiary centre in the Niger Delta

Ectopic pregnancy still remains a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity in the first trimester of pregnancy and also a significant cause of reproductive failure in Nigeria. A descriptive review of 211 consecutive cases of ectopic gestation over an 11-year period was undertaken. Ectopic pregnancy constituted 9.5% of gynaecological admissions. In all, 86% were nulliparous and 62.6% were married. Abdominal pain and tenderness were the most consistent modes of presentation. Also, 95.3% presented as ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Induced abortion (72%) was the most common factor associated with ectopic pregnancy. Anaemia was the most common post-operative complication. In all, 21% had prior dilatation and curettage as a result of misdiagnoses. The case fatality rate was 2.5%. Ectopic pregnancy presents a major public health challenge among women of reproductive age in this region. Community-based comprehensive health education programme focusing on contraception, sex education, prevention and treatment of postabortal sepsis, pelvic inflammatory disease and puerperal sepsis are urgently needed.