The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ectopic pregnancy presentation and treatment: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE: We examined ectopic pregnancy (EP) incidence, presentation and management, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and following initiation of vaccination against COVID-19. STUDY DESIGN: In a single-center retrospective cohort study, we compared incidence, presentation and management of EP, between 98 women who presented during the pandemic (March 1 2020 to August 31, 2021), and 94 women diagnosed earlier (March 1 2018 to August 31, 2019). Sub-periods before and after introduction of the vaccination were compared. RESULTS: Age and parity were similar between the periods. For the pandemic compared to the earlier period, the median gestational age at EP presentation was higher (6.24 ± 1.25 vs. 5.59 ± 1.24, P<0.001), and the proportions were higher of symptomatic women (42.9% vs. 27.7%, p = 0.035) and urgent laparoscopies (42.9% vs. 24.5%, p = 0.038). In a multivariable linear model, women who presented during the pandemic were more likely to undergo an urgent laparoscopy [OR 2.30, 95%CI (1.20–4.41)], P = 0.012. In urgent surgeries performed during the pandemic compared to the earlier period, the proportion of women with a hemoglobin drop >2 gr/dL was greater (60% vs. 30%, p = 0.024). Statistically significant differences were not found in sonographic or laboratory findings, in rupture or massive hemoperitoneum rates, or in the need for blood transfusion in urgent laparoscopy. Outcomes were similar before and after introduction of vaccinations. CONCLUSION: During the pandemic, and even after the introduction of vaccination, women with EP were more likely to undergo urgent surgery, and blood loss was greater. This is likely due to delayed diagnosis.