Whether or not you were planning to become pregnant, it’s always important to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, you might be wondering if you really need to know this information, but it can be crucial!
Perhaps you’re sorting through your pregnancy options as you face this news. Maybe you don’t feel informed about possibilities as well as potential complications such as ectopic pregnancy. It can be empowering to find out as much information as you can to move forward! Avenue Women’s Center is a limited medical clinic specializing in early pregnancy. We’d love to help you in any way we can!
Schedule your appointment with us today!
How Dangerous is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs in about 1 out of every 50 pregnancies in the United States and is a leading cause of maternal death in the first trimester. While the odds are in your favor, this is a serious matter to consider and rule out.
Ectopic pregnancy can occur for a variety of reasons, but this condition takes place when a fertilized egg implants itself in an improper location outside of the uterus. The fertilized egg is unable to grow correctly and, if left untreated, will rupture a fallopian tube.
Even if you don’t think ectopic pregnancy could be a possibility, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with the early symptoms:
- Normal pregnancy symptoms such as missed menstrual period, nausea, tender breasts
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Mild lower back, abdominal, or pelvic pain
- Mild one-sided pelvic cramping
Serious symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include:
- Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Shoulder pain
- Weakness, dizziness, fainting
If you experience any of those serious symptoms you should seek medical help right away.
Ectopic Pregnancy and Next Steps
An important step to take to determine whether your pregnancy is ectopic would be to have an ultrasound exam. An ultrasound will show the state of the pregnancy’s health as well as where it is developing.
Another important piece to consider is ectopic pregnancy treatment. If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and are considering abortion, it’s crucial to know that ectopic pregnancy cannot be ended or treated by abortion. You will need either a different medication or a different kind of surgery to remove your ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy must always be treated. This kind of pregnancy will not continue growing and must be removed. If an ectopic pregnancy is left untreated, a fallopian tube can rupture, resulting in life-threatening bleeding.
If you’re grappling with an unexpected pregnancy, it can be reassuring and empowering to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. Knowing this information will help you with your decision-making going forward.
Learning if your pregnancy is ectopic is highly important. Avenue Women’s Center is here to help. We offer free ultrasound exams to determine the health and location of your pregnancy and rule out an ectopic pregnancy. Our pregnancy consultants would love to partner with you during this time of your life and empower you with information and resources!
Schedule your appointment with us today!
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References:
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2018, February). Ectopic Pregnancy Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/ectopic-pregnancy
- American Pregnancy Association. (2020, August). Ectopic Pregnancy. Retrieved from: https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-complications/ectopic-pregnancy-839/
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.