How many weeks can an ectopic pregnancy last?

The March of Dimes Foundation states that it is impossible for any ectopic pregnancy to result in a full-term baby, thus making the life of the mother the utmost medical concern. According to the March of Dimes Foundation, most ectopic pregnancies are diagnosed before the Fallopian tube ruptures, which is within the first eight weeks of pregnancy. If the Fallopian tube ruptures, internal bleeding can result, threatening the mother's life.

The embryo must be removed either through surgical or medicinal means. If the embryo is small enough and has not yet ruptured the Fallopian tube, the drug methotrexate can be administered to the mother, ending the pregnancy.