Overview
- A 20-year analysis of NHS England data by the University of Liverpool, published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe, found admissions rose again after 2021 at an average of more than 4% per year.
- The study divides 2004–2024 into three phases: a rise from 2004–2012, stability from 2012–2021, and a renewed increase after 2021 that is driving current demand on hospital services.
- Women living in the most deprived areas have consistently experienced more than twice the rate of ectopic pregnancy admissions compared with those in the least deprived areas.
- Admissions among mothers aged 40 and over increased from about 7% in 2013 to roughly 12% in 2024, reflecting delayed childbearing and contributing to the overall rise.
- Researchers estimate about 11,000 hospital admissions a year for ectopic pregnancy in England, and they call for equity-focused clinical care, prevention efforts, and further research into causes and service gaps.