A positive pregnancy test does not always tell you everything you need to know. While most pregnancies develop inside the uterus, a small number develop somewhere else.
This is known as an ectopic pregnancy. Because an ectopic pregnancy cannot continue normally and can become a life-threatening emergency, knowing the warning signs and seeking prompt medical care are important.
Life Choices is here to support you as you learn more about your pregnancy. We offer free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and information about your options so you can feel confident about your next steps.
While we cannot diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, a limited ultrasound can provide important information about where your pregnancy is developing.
If you experience any of the warning signs below or are concerned about a possible ectopic pregnancy, seek medical care from your healthcare provider right away.
Schedule a confidential appointment today to learn more about our services.
What Are the Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube.
Early symptoms can sometimes resemble those of a typical pregnancy. You may experience a missed period, nausea, breast tenderness, or a positive pregnancy test.
Other possible symptoms include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Mild abdominal or pelvic pain
- Cramping or pain on one side of the abdomen or pelvis
- Low back pain
As an ectopic pregnancy grows, more serious symptoms can develop. Sudden or severe abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder pain, weakness, severe dizziness, or fainting can be signs of internal bleeding and require emergency medical care.
What Causes an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Damage, inflammation, or changes to the fallopian tubes can sometimes increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy.
Factors associated with a higher risk can include:
- A previous ectopic pregnancy
- Previous fallopian tube, pelvic, or abdominal surgery
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Certain sexually transmitted infections
- Endometriosis
- Fertility treatments, including IVF
- Smoking
- A history of infertility
However, just because you may have one of these risk factors doesn’t automatically mean you will have an ectopic pregnancy. Up to 50% of women who experience an ectopic pregnancy don’t have any of the above risk factors.
How Do I Know if I Have an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Symptoms alone cannot confirm whether a pregnancy is ectopic. Some symptoms, such as bleeding and cramping, can also occur with other pregnancy complications.
A healthcare provider may use blood tests to measure hCG levels and ultrasound imaging to help determine where the pregnancy is developing.
If you have a positive pregnancy test and are experiencing pain or bleeding, contact a healthcare provider promptly for medical advice.
Why Does an Ectopic Pregnancy Need Urgent Treatment?
An ectopic pregnancy cannot continue normally because the area outside the uterus cannot safely support a growing pregnancy.
The abortion pill cannot end an ectopic pregnancy. Without an ultrasound, your ectopic pregnancy may continue to grow undetected, causing serious complications.
As the pregnancy grows, it can cause the fallopian tube or another surrounding structure to rupture. A rupture can lead to severe internal bleeding and become a life-threatening medical emergency.
If you experience sudden severe abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder pain, severe dizziness, weakness, or fainting, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Treatment may involve medication or surgery, depending on factors such as the location and size of the pregnancy, your hCG levels, your symptoms, and whether a rupture has occurred.
Get a Free Ultrasound at Life Choices
Life Choices is here to help you get the details and support you need. Our free pregnancy services can help confirm your pregnancy, while a limited ultrasound can provide information about where the pregnancy is developing.
We want you to feel fully informed and confident moving forward, and we will never judge or pressure you into making a pregnancy decision. We also provide parenting education and material support if you choose to continue your pregnancy.
Contact us to make your appointment. You don’t have to figure this out alone.