What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
The word ectopic means “out of place,” describing a pregnancy that is developing somewhere other than inside the uterus. In a normal pregnancy, a fertilized egg travels to the uterus, where it implants and begins to grow. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube.
Ectopic pregnancies affect roughly 2% of all pregnancies. A home pregnancy test cannot tell you where a pregnancy is located, which is why an ultrasound is an important next step after a positive result.
Keep reading to learn more about the signs and symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy.
What are the Signs of an Ectopic Pregnancy?
A fallopian tube cannot support a pregnancy past a certain point. As a pregnancy develops, it can lead to a tubal rupture, which requires immediate medical attention. If you are pregnant and have not confirmed your pregnancy’s location via an ultrasound, watch for these warning signs:
- Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Extreme lightheadedness, weakness, or fainting
- Shoulder pain (which can be a sign of internal bleeding)
If you experience any of these symptoms, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 right away.
How Do I Know If I Have an Ectopic Pregnancy?
The only way to know for sure where a pregnancy is located is through an ultrasound, which we offer at no cost at Amnion Women’s Center.
In addition to confirming the location of the pregnancy, an ultrasound can confirm gestational age, or how far along the pregnancy is, and viability, including whether cardiac activity is detected or whether a miscarriage has occurred. Having this information is an important first step before moving forward.
If you have received a positive pregnancy test and have not yet had an ultrasound, contact us today to schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment with one of our nurses.
Pregnancy Testing
When you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, clear answers matter. Whether you’ve already taken an at-home test or are still unsure, Amnion Women’s Center offers a safe, supportive environment to get the answers you need.
Ultrasounds
A positive pregnancy test is an important first step, but doesn’t tell you everything. To protect your health and help you make fully informed choices, it’s essential to confirm your pregnancy through an ultrasound.
Education & Support
Pregnancy and parenting, especially after an unexpected pregnancy, can bring many questions, emotions, and new experiences. Whether you’re preparing for your first child or are already raising children, Amnion Women’s Center provides encouragement and ongoing support so you never have to navigate this journey alone.
Pregnancy Testing
When you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, clear answers matter. Whether you’ve already taken an at-home test or are still unsure, Amnion Women’s Center offers a safe, supportive environment to get the answers you need.
Ultrasounds
A positive pregnancy test is an important first step, but doesn’t tell you everything. To protect your health and help you make fully informed choices, it’s essential to confirm your pregnancy through an ultrasound.
Education & Support
Pregnancy and parenting, especially after an unexpected pregnancy, can bring many questions, emotions, and new experiences. Whether you’re preparing for your first child or are already raising children, Amnion Women’s Center provides encouragement and ongoing support so you never have to navigate this journey alone.
