What are my treatment options? Will I be okay? Can the fetus survive an ectopic pregnancy?
At A Better Choice, we’re here to educate, empower, and support women navigating unplanned pregnancies, including ectopic pregnancies. In this guide, we’ll break down what an ectopic pregnancy is, its symptoms, warning signs, and how to develop a treatment plan with your healthcare provider.
What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes (known as a tubal ectopic pregnancy), It can also occur in the abdominal cavity or on an ovary.[1]
Unlike a normal pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy cannot progress to term because the fetus cannot survive outside the uterus. For the pregnant woman, it’s a serious, life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.[2]
Common Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy
Early on, ectopic pregnancy symptoms may mimic a typical pregnancy, including[3]:
- Missed period
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
A pregnancy test will show positive results.[4] However, as the condition advances, other warning signs may appear. Look out for these early ectopic pregnancy symptoms[5]:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Lower abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
- Weakness or dizziness
Without prompt treatment, the growing fertilized egg can rupture the fallopian tube (or other implantation sites), causing dangerous internal bleeding in the abdomen.[6] This can lead to shock, fainting, and the need for emergency surgery.[7]
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience[8]:
- Shoulder pain (from blood leaking out of the fallopian tube)
- Severe pelvic or abdominal pain with bleeding
- Fainting or extreme lightheadedness
How is an Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis is critical to prevent complications like a ruptured fallopian tube.
Diagnosing an ectopic pregnancy starts with confirming pregnancy through a blood test to measure hCG levels.[9] Your doctor may then use:
- A transvaginal ultrasound to pinpoint the pregnancy’s location.[10]
- An abdominal ultrasound to check for internal bleeding.[11]
Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment Options
Once diagnosed, collaborate with your healthcare provider to create a tailored treatment plan. Options depend on the timing and severity of your condition and include different medication and surgical options that your doctor can discuss in depth.
There are no abortion laws that would prohibit women from receiving care for ectopic pregnancies.
Free Ultrasounds in Wichita, Kansas
You don’t have to navigate this alone. At A Better Choice, our compassionate team provides free pregnancy tests and limited ultrasounds and a safe space to get answers.
Don’t delay—call us at (316) 685-5757 or schedule an appointment online today!
This article is for informational purposes only. A Better Choice does not diagnose or treat ectopic pregnancies. We only provide free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds to confirm the state of your pregnancy. Please meet with your primary healthcare provider as quickly as possible to receive an official diagnosis and treatment.
Sources
- Ectopic Pregnancy – Symptoms & Causes. Mayo Clinic. (2022, March 12). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088
- See source #1.
- See source #1.
- See source #1.
- Ectopic Pregnancy. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, January 18). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9687-ectopic-pregnancy#symptoms-and-causes
- See source #1.
- See source #1.
- See source #1.
- Ectopic Pregnancy – Diagnosis & Treatment. Mayo Clinic. (2022, March 12). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372093
- See source #9.
- See source #9.