An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg attaches somewhere outside the uterus, most commonly in one of the fallopian tubes (also called a tubal pregnancy).
While this condition may only happen in about 2% or 1 in 50 pregnancies, when it does happen, it’s considered a medical emergency due to the risk of life-threatening internal bleeding.
Keep reading to learn more about ectopic pregnancy and how you can prevent leaving one undetected when pregnant.
About Ectopic Pregnancies
Only the uterus can nurture and house a growing pregnancy. It expands and stretches as the pregnancy progresses, then shrinks back down after the pregnancy.
The fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix, abdomen, and other locations in the body do not have this same capability, so when a pregnancy implants somewhere other than the uterus, it can lead to complications as the pregnancy grows. A known, dangerous complication from an ectopic pregnancy is “tubal rupture,” when a fallopian tube bursts from the growing pregnancy.
The Treatments for Ectopic Pregnancy
Doctors do not currently have the technology to transfer an ectopic pregnancy into the uterus. Therefore, these pregnancies are non-viable, meaning they cannot grow and survive successfully. They must be treated either through medication or surgery to preserve the woman’s health.
The treatment depends on the specifics of the ectopic pregnancy’s location, whether tubal rupture has occurred, and if it’s an emergency. Two treatments include injecting a medication called methotrexate or surgically removing either the ectopic pregnancy or both the ectopic pregnancy and the fallopian tube.
How to Identify an Ectopic Pregnancy
An ultrasound is the only conclusive way to identify an ectopic pregnancy because it determines the location. That’s why it’s crucial to receive an ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy and gather critical details, no matter which option you’re considering.
If you have an ectopic pregnancy, you may begin to experience symptoms as the pregnancy grows. The first warning signs include light vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. If you have shoulder pain or the urge to make a bowel movement, that could point to blood leaking from a fallopian tube.
Emergency symptoms include extreme lightheadedness, fainting, and shock.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, don’t wait. Go to your nearest emergency room for an ultrasound.
Women’s Clinic Can Help
At Women’s Clinic, we care about your health and offer free and low-cost GYN services you need to safeguard your health.
Safeguard your health by confirming your pregnancy details with our pregnancy testing and limited obstetrical ultrasound services. Get the answers you need to move forward.
Schedule an appointment to begin. You are not alone.
