An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that develops outside the uterus, most often in one of the fallopian tubes. It happens in about 1 in 50 pregnancies.
This type of pregnancy cannot develop normally and can become a medical emergency if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to know the symptoms and when to seek immediate medical attention.
Parkridge Pregnancy Medical Clinic offers no-cost pregnancy services and evidence-based medical education. We’re here to answer your questions. Contact us to schedule an appointment with our medical team.
Where an Ectopic Pregnancy Develops
A normal pregnancy implants and develops inside the uterus.
In an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants outside the main cavity of the uterus. Most develop in a fallopian tube, although other locations are possible.
An ectopic pregnancy cannot grow and develop safely. As it grows, it can damage the surrounding tissue and may cause the fallopian tube to rupture. A ruptured fallopian tube can cause significant internal bleeding and can be life-threatening.
Symptoms May Not Start Right Away
Early on, you may not notice anything unusual.
As an ectopic pregnancy progresses, symptoms can include vaginal bleeding and abdominal or pelvic pain, which may be stronger on one side.
Seek emergency medical attention for symptoms such as:
Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
Shoulder pain
Fainting
Extreme dizziness or lightheadedness
Heavy bleeding
If your symptoms are severe, go to an emergency room or call 911 rather than waiting for an appointment.
A Positive Test Cannot Show the Pregnancy’s Location
A pregnancy test detects hCG. It cannot tell where the pregnancy is implanted.
Parkridge Pregnancy Medical Clinic offers a no-cost ultrasound after medical-grade urine pregnancy testing.
An ultrasound can help determine if a pregnancy is in the uterus. However, the pregnancy must be far enough along to be seen on an ultrasound, which is usually around 6 weeks.
If the pregnancy cannot be located or the findings are unclear, follow-up with a healthcare provider may be necessary. Diagnosing an ectopic pregnancy can involve ultrasound, blood testing, and other methods.
Treatment Requires a Medical Provider
An ectopic pregnancy cannot be moved into the uterus, and cannot safely grow outside of it.
Depending on the situation and factors like the location of the ectopic pregnancy, treatment may involve medication or surgery. A ruptured ectopic pregnancy requires emergency treatment to prevent serious complications.
Gather More Information
If you recently received a positive home test and are not experiencing emergency symptoms, contact Parkridge Pregnancy Medical Clinic today to schedule no-cost pregnancy testing and speak with our medical team about ultrasound services.
You can also receive evidence-based medical information, and you can ask questions about your pregnancy. We’re here to help you feel supported.