Ectopic pregnancy without an intrauterine pregnancy

When a pregnancy test is positive but an ultrasound does not show a pregnancy in the uterus, clinicians may describe this as a pregnancy of unknown location. It can be an early pregnancy that is too small to see, an early pregnancy that is no longer developing, or an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube, and can become dangerous if it grows and causes internal bleeding.

Assessment commonly combines symptoms, repeat pregnancy-hormone testing, and a transvaginal ultrasound. Pelvic inflammatory disease can affect the fallopian tubes and is one possible risk factor, but this finding alone cannot identify the cause.

Contact the maternity or gynaecology service promptly and follow the plan for repeat blood tests or imaging. Keep the team informed about pain, bleeding, dizziness, and any change in symptoms. A transvaginal ultrasound may help locate the pregnancy. Depending on the results, care may involve observation, medicine, or surgery such as salpingectomy to remove an affected fallopian tube. Do not delay planned follow-up because you feel well.

Seek emergency care immediately for severe or one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness, weakness, or heavy vaginal bleeding. These symptoms can signal internal bleeding or rupture. If symptoms are new or worsening, do not wait for a scheduled scan or blood test.

Ask when your next pregnancy-hormone test and ultrasound are due, what result would confirm the pregnancy location, which symptoms should send you to emergency care, and how each treatment option could affect future pregnancy plans.