ECTOPIC PREGNANCY: INCIDENCE, RISK FACTORS, AND OUTCOMES IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTER – A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Background: Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a fertilized ovum implants outside the uterine cavity. Despite advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, EP remains a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Methodology: This prospective observational study aimed to investigate the incidence, risk factors, clinical presentations, and outcomes of ectopic pregnancies in a tertiary care center. Conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, AIIMS, Rishikesh, the study included 66 cases diagnosed between January 2019 and June 2020. Key risk factors included prior caesarean sectio Results: ns, abortions, and contraception use. Most cases presented with amenorrhea (92.42%), abdominal pain (87.8%), and vaginal bleeding (74.2%). Surgical management was predominant (72.72%), with salpingectomy being the most common procedure (87.7%). Medical management with methotrexate was successful in select cases (24.24%), and expectant management was rarely employed. This study underscores the i Conclusion: mportance of early diagnosis and intervention to improve maternal outcomes. Strengthening diagnostic capabilities, especially at primary care levels, and ensuring timely referral can significantly reduce the incidence of ruptured ectopic pregnancies.