What is a significant risk factor for ectopic pregnancy?

A significant risk factor for ectopic pregnancy is prior tubal surgery or infection. This is due to the fact that any surgical procedures on the fallopian tubes can cause scarring or damage, which may hinder the normal movement of the fertilized egg toward the uterus. Similarly, infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can lead to scarring and adhesions in the reproductive tract, increasing the likelihood that an embryo will implant in the fallopian tube instead of the uterus, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy.

Other risk factors exist, such as age over 35 and a history of previous ectopic pregnancies, but these are generally not as directly linked to the anatomical changes and physiological alterations that predispose a patient to ectopic implantation. High blood pressure, while a health concern, is not a recognized risk factor for ectopic pregnancy. Understanding these risk factors is crucial for early identification and management of ectopic pregnancies, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.