Ectopic Pregnancy and Chinese Medicine

General Considerations

Ectopic pregnancy is a condition that requires treatment with Western medicine, but it can also be integrated with treatment using Chinese medicine. As is common in Chinese medicine, a differentiation of patterns is necessary to determine the appropriate treatment. In general, ectopic pregnancy is considered a Full condition characterized by Blood stasis and requires invigorating Blood and eliminating stasis. However, beyond this generalization, three specific patterns can be distinguished, which are discussed below along with their treatment.

Three Patterns of Ectopic Pregnancy

 The practice of Chinese medicine is based on the principles of balance and harmony within the body. It is not intended to diagnose or treat specific diseases, but rather to address patterns of disharmony that may be contributing to health problems. The information provided by this website or by any of our practitioners is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified medical doctor. Please consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health and well-being.


Blood Stasis

Blood stasis is a pattern of ectopic pregnancy that is characterized by severe, stabbing abdominal pain, a Purple tongue, and a Wiry pulse. The treatment principle for this pattern is to invigorate Blood, eliminate stasis, dissolve masses, and terminate the pregnancy.

Collapse of Yang

Collapse of Yang is a pattern of ectopic pregnancy that is characterized by abdominal pain, a bright white complexion, hypertension, sweating, cold hands and feet, nausea, vomiting, and a Deep-Fine-Scattered pulse. The treatment principle for this pattern is to rescue the Yang, nourish Yin, invigorate Blood, and eliminate stasis.

Blood Stasis and Qi Deficiency

Blood stasis and Qi deficiency is a pattern of ectopic pregnancy that is characterized by abdominal pain that improves with pressure, vaginal bleeding, lassitude, normal blood pressure, and a Fine pulse. The treatment principle for this pattern is to invigorate Blood, eliminate stasis, and tonify Qi.