Objectives: To evaluate the course and frequency of ectopic pregnancy in a single population for a prolonged period in order to study the simultaneous changes in distribution of risk factors, identify new risk factors and evaluate the effect of new diagnostic and therapeutic methods on subsequent fertility and the effectiveness of preventive measures.
Methods: All women residing in the Registry zone and treated surgically or medically for ectopic pregnancy were included in the study and followed to the age of 45 years.
Results: In 1992, the incidence of ectopic pregnancy was 20.2 per 1,000 live births (n = 160). At least one currently recognized risk factor was found in 80% of the women. A past history of salpingitis was noted in 13% and nearly one half smoked or had smoked at the time of conception. Nineteen percent had a past history of pelvic surgery and 19% had a history of infertility. The ectopic pregnancy recorded was the second one in 9%. Nearly one-third of the ectopic pregnancies recorded (31%) were diagnosed in patients with a intrauterine device. None of these latter patients had other risk factors. Vaginal echography was used for diagnosis in 75% of the cases. Surgery was used as first intention treatment in 94% and medical treatment (methotrexate) was used in 6%.