What should you know about features of ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy may present with a missed period, a positive pregnancy test, vaginal bleeding and pain low in the abdomen or pelvis, often more noticeable on one side. Shoulder-tip pain, discomfort when passing urine or stool, or feeling weak can also occur. Pelvic Pain has many possible causes, so it does not by itself diagnose an ectopic pregnancy. Previous Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, tubal surgery or an ectopic pregnancy can affect risk, but the condition can occur without these factors.

If pregnancy is possible and you have pain or bleeding, contact a maternity or emergency service promptly. Clinicians may repeat pregnancy hormone tests and perform a Transvaginal Ultrasound to locate the pregnancy. Until the location is clear, follow-up matters even if symptoms are mild. Treatment may involve close monitoring, medicine or surgery. A Salpingectomy, which removes the affected fallopian tube, may be considered when the tube has ruptured or surgery is otherwise needed.

Call emergency services or go to an emergency department for sudden severe abdominal or pelvic pain, fainting, marked dizziness, shoulder-tip pain, heavy bleeding, unusual pallor or feeling extremely unwell. These signs may indicate internal bleeding. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, and do not wait for a home test result when severe symptoms are present.

Ask where the pregnancy is located, what follow-up tests are planned, which symptoms require immediate return, and how each treatment could affect future fertility and the other fallopian tube.