van Esch Edith M G, Smeets Maddy J G H, Rhemrev Johann P T
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bronovo Hospital, The Hague, the Netherlands.
Eur J Contracept Reprod Health Care. 2012 Apr;17(2):170-4. doi: 10.3109/13625187.2011.642032. Epub 2011 Dec 27.
Endometrial resection is a procedure often performed for treatment of menorrhagia. Despite the fact that amenorrhoea frequently ensues, some normal endometrium can remain present and become the implantation site of a pregnancy. Such an event is uncommon (0.7%); however, the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy is increased. This case report calls the reader's attention to the risk of intra- and extrauterine pregnancies and the necessity for contraception after endometrial resection, even in cases where amenorrhoea supervenes.
A 46-year-old woman with prior endometrial resection and subsequent amenorrhoea, was diagnosed with a cornual pregnancy. She was successfully treated with systemic methotrexate, which was given in an outpatient clinic.
Clinicians should be aware of the increased likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy after endometrial resection. All women submitting to this procedure should be counselled about the need for contraception, even in cases where amenorrhoea develops.
