How is my future fertility changed after an ectopic pregnancy?

The fertility outcome following an ectopic pregnancy is improved by several factors, such as younger age (<30) and greater number of previous births (>3). Subsequent pregnancy rate is lower in women who have a history of infertility, previous salpingitis, a rupture of an ectopic pregnancy, and adhesions about the Fallopian tube. Most studies to date indicate that conservative treatment (medical or linear salpingostomy) provides comparable or higher rates of future normal pregnancies than radical surgery (salpingectomy), but the rate of recurrent ectopic pregnancies may be higher with conservative treatment.

Summary: The fertility outcome following an ectopic pregnancy is improved by several factors such as younger age (<30) and greater number of previous births (>3). It is worse with a (1) history of infertility, (2) pervious salpingitis, (3) rupture of an ectopic pregnancy, and (4) adhesions about the Fallopian tube. Most studies to date indicate that rates of future normal pregnancies are as good or better with conservative treatment than radical surgery, but the rate of recurrent ectopic pregnancies may be higher.

What are my risks for another ectopic pregnancy?

The average rate of repeat ectopic pregnancies after one ectopic pregnancy is 12%. In women with indications of significant damage to a Fallopian tube, if surgery is to be performed, it might be preferred to remove that tube (salpingectomy) to decrease the risk of another ectopic pregnancy. If a woman has had two ectopic pregnancies, it might be better to perform in-vitro fertilization for conception to reduce the risk of having a third ectopic pregnancy.

Summary: The average rate of recurrence is 12%. Significant tubal damage may indicate salpingectomy, if surgery is to be performed, to decrease the recurrence risk. History of two ectopic pregnancies may indicate the use of in-vitro fertilization to reduce the recurrence risk.