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A positive pregnancy test can answer one important question, but there are still details about your pregnancy that need to be confirmed. One of those details is where the pregnancy is located.
An ectopic pregnancy develops outside the uterus and can become a medical emergency without treatment. Learning about ectopic pregnancy, recognizing which symptoms require medical attention, and understanding why an ultrasound is important can help you protect your health.
Hope Pregnancy Resource Center offers pregnancy testing and limited OB ultrasounds to help you learn more about your pregnancy. Schedule a no-cost appointment today to get started and discuss any questions or concerns with our team.
Where Does an Ectopic Pregnancy Develop?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants somewhere outside the main cavity of the uterus. Most ectopic pregnancies develop in a fallopian tube, although implantation can occur in other locations.
A pregnancy cannot continue normally outside the uterus. As the pregnancy grows, the fallopian tube or surrounding tissue may rupture, potentially causing dangerous internal bleeding.
Some women have a greater risk of ectopic pregnancy than others. According to the Mayo Clinic, risk factors can include a previous ectopic pregnancy, certain fertility treatments, inflammation or infection, and smoking. However, an ectopic pregnancy can also occur without known risk factors.
Would I Know if My Pregnancy Were Ectopic?
Not necessarily. At first, you may have the same signs you would expect with any early pregnancy, such as a missed period, breast tenderness, or nausea. Some women have no unusual symptoms in the beginning.
As an ectopic pregnancy progresses, symptoms can include vaginal bleeding and pelvic or abdominal pain.
Certain symptoms can indicate a more serious emergency. These include:
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Shoulder pain
- Extreme lightheadedness or dizziness
- Fainting
If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, or other symptoms that make you concerned about an ectopic pregnancy, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Why an Ultrasound Is Important
A pregnancy test detects hCG, a hormone associated with pregnancy. It cannot determine where the pregnancy has implanted.
An ultrasound can provide information about the location of the pregnancy. This is particularly important because an ectopic pregnancy requires immediate medical care to prevent complications like life-threatening internal bleeding.
An ultrasound can also help estimate how far along you are and provide information about whether the pregnancy is developing.
What Happens if an Ectopic Pregnancy Is Found?
An ectopic pregnancy requires medical treatment because a pregnancy developing outside the uterus cannot be moved into the uterus or continue safely.
The appropriate treatment depends on factors such as how far the pregnancy has progressed and whether complications have occurred. Treatment may involve medication or surgery.
If you are diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy, your healthcare provider can explain the appropriate treatment for your specific medical needs.
Learn More About Your Pregnancy
If you’ve received a positive pregnancy test, learning where the pregnancy is located is an important part of early pregnancy confirmation.
Hope Pregnancy Resource Center provides pregnancy testing and limited OB ultrasounds to help you make informed decisions as you consider your next steps. Schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment today to get started and have your questions answered.
