Certain factors have been described that could increase the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy, i.e., a pregnancy in which the embryo implants outside the uterine cavity. These factors include:
- Tubal factors.
- Pelvic or abdominal surgery.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- Endometriosis.
- Maternal age over 35.
- Smoking.
- Pregnancy with an intrauterine device (IUD).
- Previous ectopic pregnancy.
- Assisted reproductive technology (ART).
The presence of these factors does not mean that an ectopic pregnancy will definitely occur, but the risk would be increased.
Read the full article on: Assisted reproduction techniques and ectopic pregnancy ( 28).
By Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 10/24/2025
