Ectopic pregnancy with hemoperitoneum

An ectopic pregnancy can grow in a fallopian tube, where the tube may tear and bleed. Hemoperitoneum is the collection of that blood inside the abdomen, not bleeding that is visible from the vagina. The amount and effect of bleeding can change quickly, causing abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness, a fast heartbeat, or collapse.

Clinicians assess blood pressure, pulse, pain, blood tests, and ultrasound. A transvaginal ultrasound may show pregnancy-related findings or fluid, but the clinical picture guides urgent decisions. This situation is not managed safely at home.

Call emergency services or attend an emergency department immediately if hemoperitoneum is suspected or has been diagnosed. Do not eat or drink unless the treating team advises you, because urgent surgery may be needed. Bring medication details if possible, but do not delay departure to collect belongings.

Sudden intense abdominal or pelvic pain, fainting, clammy skin, severe weakness, shoulder-tip pain, or heavy vaginal bleeding warrants immediate emergency help. Internal bleeding may be present without much vaginal bleeding. If you feel faint, lie down while waiting and have someone stay with you.

Once you are stable, ask where the bleeding is coming from, what treatment is recommended, and how your blood tests will be monitored. If surgery is planned, ask whether a salpingectomy is needed, what recovery involves, and when follow-up care will occur.