Ectopic pregnancy risks to the mother

An ectopic pregnancy cannot grow normally in a fallopian tube. As the pregnancy enlarges, the tube may stretch and bleed, then tear. Blood can collect inside the abdomen without being visible as vaginal bleeding. This can cause pain, weakness, dizziness or collapse. Ectopic pregnancy presents with pelvic pain in some people, but pelvic pain has many causes and does not establish the diagnosis. Earlier assessment allows clinicians to consider treatment before tubal damage becomes severe. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can damage the tubes and is one factor clinicians may ask about.

Seek medical advice promptly if pregnancy is possible and you have pelvic pain, spotting or unusual bleeding. Assessment may include examination, pregnancy hormone testing and a Transvaginal Ultrasound. Treatment may involve monitoring, medicine or an operation, depending on the pregnancy location, symptoms and signs of bleeding. A Salpingectomy is an operation that removes a fallopian tube; it may be considered when the tube is badly damaged or bleeding. Your care team will explain the safest suitable approach.

Get emergency help immediately if pain becomes sudden or severe, or if you faint, feel very dizzy, develop shoulder-tip pain, become unusually weak or pale, have breathlessness or bleed heavily. These can be signs of internal bleeding. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or unwell.

Ask whether the pregnancy has been located, whether there are signs of bleeding, which treatment options are available, how your future fertility may be affected, and how quickly you need follow-up.