What should you know about high risk for ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy develops outside the main cavity of the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. Previous ectopic pregnancy, damage or surgery involving a tube, pelvic inflammatory disease, and some fertility treatments can increase concern. A risk factor does not confirm an ectopic pregnancy; it tells the care team to plan earlier checks.

Early pregnancy symptoms can overlap with a normal pregnancy. Pain on one side, vaginal bleeding, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness or fainting need particular attention. A clinician may use pregnancy hormone tests and a transvaginal ultrasound to locate the pregnancy and assess changes over time.

Tell your maternity or fertility team as soon as you know you are pregnant and mention any previous ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease or tubal procedure. Keep appointments for blood tests and ultrasound even if you feel well. Avoid delaying review because pain or bleeding seems mild.

If an ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment depends on the pregnancy location, symptoms, examination and test results. Options may include close monitoring, medicine or surgery such as salpingectomy.

Go to emergency care for severe or worsening pelvic pain, fainting, marked dizziness, shoulder-tip pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, or weakness with a positive pregnancy test. A ruptured ectopic pregnancy can cause internal bleeding, so do not wait for a routine appointment when these symptoms occur.

When should I have my first blood test and ultrasound? Which symptoms mean I should go straight to emergency care? If an ectopic pregnancy is found, which treatment is appropriate and how might it affect future pregnancy planning?