The objective of this prospective study was to analyse the epidemiology and prognosis of ectopic pregnancy in Senegal. From January 1 to December 31, 1996, 255 ectopic pregnancies were registered. The national rate of ectopic pregnancy was 0.6%. of expected pregnancies. However, rates differed greatly between areas in Senegal, with extremes ranging from 0.85%. in Dakar to 0.32%. in Thiès. The epidemiological profile was that of a young woman-mean age: 23 years old, mean parity=3, admitted with broken ectopic pregnancy (95%). A salpingectomy was performed in all cases. The maternal mortality rate was 1.20%, while morbidity, mainly due to post-operative infection, was found in 2.7% of the cases.