Finding out you’re pregnant can bring a lot of questions, especially if you’re experiencing pain or other unusual symptoms.
While most pregnancies develop inside the uterus, there are rare cases where a pregnancy implants outside of the uterus, most commonly in one of the fallopian tubes. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy, and it requires immediate medical attention.
Understanding what an ectopic pregnancy is, what symptoms to watch for, and how it’s diagnosed can help you protect your health. Read on to learn more, or contact New Beginnings to find a safe space to ask questions and get help.
What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus instead of inside it. Approximately 90% of ectopic pregnancies occur in one of the fallopian tubes, but they can also develop in other locations, such as the cervix, ovary, or abdominal cavity.
Because these areas cannot support a growing pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy cannot continue. If left untreated, it can cause serious internal bleeding and become life-threatening.
Although ectopic pregnancies are relatively uncommon, they are considered a medical emergency and require prompt treatment, which is why it’s critical to get a diagnosis.
What Are the Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy?
In the early stages, an ectopic pregnancy may feel very similar to a typical pregnancy. You may have a positive pregnancy test, miss your period, or experience common pregnancy symptoms like nausea or breast tenderness.
As the pregnancy progresses, however, symptoms may include:
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding
- Extreme lightheadedness or fainting
- Shoulder pain
If you’re pregnant and experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s critical to seek emergency care at an emergency room right away.
How Is an Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?
The most reliable way to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy is through an ultrasound, along with evaluation by a healthcare provider. An ultrasound allows medical professionals to determine whether the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus or elsewhere.
This is one of the reasons an ultrasound is so important after a positive pregnancy test, especially before making any pregnancy decision. It provides essential information about your health and helps identify conditions, like ectopic pregnancy, that require immediate medical care.
We’re Here to Help
If you think you may be pregnant, New Beginnings of Winchester is here to support you.
We offer free, confidential ultrasounds for qualifying patients to help determine how far along you are, whether your pregnancy is located in the uterus, and provide important information about your pregnancy. If an ultrasound suggests anything out of the ordinary, you can seek the prompt medical care needed to protect your health.
Contact New Beginnings today to schedule your confidential appointment. Our caring team is here to answer your questions and provide compassionate support. We’re here for you.