If you’ve recently discovered you are unexpectedly pregnant and are experiencing unusual pain or bleeding, you may be wondering whether you could have an ectopic pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs in approximately 2% of pregnancies and is a serious complication where the pregnancy implants outside of the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. This condition can become life-threatening if left untreated and requires urgent medical attention.
While we do not diagnose ectopic pregnancy, Ridgeway Women’s Clinic can help by providing initial pregnancy confirmation through no-cost pregnancy testing and a limited obstetric ultrasound at our clinic. If we identify any findings that warrant further evaluation, we can make an appropriate medical referral.
Reach out to our clinic today to get the support you deserve.
What Causes an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants somewhere other than the uterus.
It can be caused by conditions that slow or block the movement of the fertilized egg through the fallopian tube.
Factors that may increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy include:
- Scar tissue, adhesions, or inflammation from a prior pelvic surgery
- Damage to the fallopian tubes caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
- You were born with an irregularly shaped fallopian tube
- A growth or blockage in the fallopian tube
You may also be at higher risk if you have previously had an ectopic pregnancy, have a history of infertility, have had certain sexually transmitted infections, or smoke tobacco.
Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy can feel like a normal pregnancy in the beginning, which is why early detection is so important. You may experience common early pregnancy symptoms such as a missed period, nausea, and breast tenderness.
However, as the pregnancy develops, you will likely start to notice warning signs such as:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Shoulder pain
- Bowel problems
- Dizziness or fainting
If you experience any of these warning signs, it is crucial to get medical attention right away, because an ectopic pregnancy can cause severe internal bleeding.
How an Ectopic Pregnancy Is Diagnosed
An ectopic pregnancy cannot be diagnosed with a pregnancy test. A pregnancy test will show whether or not you have the hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), in your body, but not the location of the pregnancy.
An ultrasound can show where your pregnancy is located, how far along you are in your pregnancy, and whether your pregnancy appears to be progressing with a heartbeat. The abortion pill cannot treat an ectopic pregnancy, as the pregnancy is not located in the uterus.
Early detection can reduce the risk of serious complications and help you receive the medical treatment you need.
Get Pregnancy Confirmation at Ridgeway Women’s Clinic
Ridgeway Women’s Clinic is here to support you throughout your pregnancy.
We provide no-cost pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, information about your pregnancy, and education about your options. You do not have to navigate this pregnancy alone.
Early medical screening can help protect your health if you suspect you may have an ectopic pregnancy, especially if you have one or more risk factors. We also provide STI testing and treatment at our clinic to protect your reproductive health.
Contact us today to schedule a free and confidential appointment in Freeport and the Rockford area (Loves Park).
