What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Pregnancy outside Fetal Membranes

What is Extramembranous Pregnancy? (Definition/Background Information)

• Extramembranous Pregnancy is a rare condition that occurs when the fetal membranes rupture causing the developing fetus to be pushed into the endometrial cavity of the uterus
• There are no risk factors or causative factors associated with Extramembranous Pregnancy
• The signs and symptoms of the condition may include vaginal bleeding, lack of menstruation, and abdominal pain
• Extramembranous Pregnancy may be diagnosed by a physical examination, evaluation of complete medical history, and an ultrasound scan of the abdomen
• In majority of the cases, the developing fetus may die during early pregnancy and be passed out of the body (miscarriage). In case the fetus does not completely pass out of the body, a D & C needs to be performed
• Usually Extramembranous Pregnancy causes fetal death and is detected early in pregnancy. However, if the condition is detected during the end stages of pregnancy, then the infant may be delivered. In most cases, such infants have significant health issues resulting in poor prognosis
• Presently, Extramembranous Pregnancy is a condition that cannot be prevented

Who gets Extramembranous Pregnancy? (Age and Sex Distribution)

Extramembranous Pregnancy is rare, but may occur in pregnant women of all ages.

What are the Risk Factors for Extramembranous Pregnancy? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Extramembranous Pregnancy
• Research is being performed to identify the relevant risk factors

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Extramembranous Pregnancy? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Extramembranous Pregnancy is unknown
• Research is currently being performed to identify the relevant causative factors

Extramembranous Pregnancy is not caused by what the expectant mother does or does not do, either prior to or during pregnancy.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Extramembranous Pregnancy?

The signs and symptoms of Extramembranous Pregnancy may include:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Lack of menstruation
• Abdominal pain

How is Extramembranous Pregnancy Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Extramembranous Pregnancy may involve:

• Physical examination along with an evaluation of one’s medical history
• Abdominal ultrasound

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Extramembranous Pregnancy?

Complications due to Extramembranous Pregnancy may include:

• Miscarriages
• Stillbirths
• Extramembranous Pregnancy may go unnoticed for a period of time and cause infection of the endometrium
• During a D & C, the complete products of conception may not be removed causing retained conception products. This can result in persistent bleeding

How is Extramembranous Pregnancy Treated?

• There is no specific treatment available for Extramembranous Pregnancy
• Treatment is directed towards managing the fetal complications associated with this condition
• In case of a miscarriage, dilatation and curettage (D & C) of the endometrial cavity may be required, if the fetus does not entirely pass of out the body

How can Extramembranous Pregnancy be Prevented?

Currently, there are no definitive methods available to prevent Extramembranous Pregnancy.

What is the Prognosis of Extramembranous Pregnancy? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Extramembranous Pregnancy is poor. The condition is associated with a high risk of fetal death
• If the leakage of the amniotic fluid from the amniotic sac occurs later in pregnancy, the infant (post-delivery) may develop respiratory distress syndrome

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Extramembranous Pregnancy:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-related-disorders/