Where do ectopic pregnancies typically occur?

Ectopic pregnancies predominantly occur in the fallopian tubes, which are the structures that transport the ovum from the ovary to the uterus. In a normal pregnancy, a fertilized egg implants in the uterine lining. However, in an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity, with the fallopian tubes being the most common location for this. This happens because the fertilized egg is unable to reach the uterus due to various factors, such as blockages or damage to the fallopian tubes. An ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tubes can lead to significant health complications for the pregnant individual, including tube rupture and internal bleeding, necessitating prompt medical intervention.

Other locations for ectopic pregnancies, while possible, occur much less frequently; for instance, implantation in the ovaries or abdominal cavity can occur but are not as common. The uterus is the standard site for implantation, thus it is not associated with ectopic pregnancies. Understanding these specifics is vital for recognizing the risks and clinical implications of ectopic pregnancies.