Healthy pregnancies develop inside of the uterus. If a pregnancy grows outside of the uterus, such as in the fallopian tube, this is an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic means “out of” and refers to its unique location.
Ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening if they do not receive medical treatment.
Ultrasounds can give you digital images that show you the location of the pregnancy and identify whether or not it is ectopic.
Normal vs. Ectopic Pregnancies
In a normal pregnancy, a fertilized egg travels through the fallopian tube and implants within the lining of the uterus. After implantation, the developing embryo triggers the formation of the placenta. The placenta then provides the necessary nutrients and oxygen to support the growing fetus throughout the pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. This dangerous condition requires immediate medical treatment, as the growing embryo can cause tubal rupture and bring life-threatening complications.
What Are the Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy?
In the early stages, an ectopic pregnancy can be challenging to distinguish from a normal pregnancy, as both will initially cause typical symptoms like a missed period. However, specific ectopic pregnancy symptoms usually develop between 4-12 weeks of gestation.
These may include one-sided abdominal/pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding or discharge, shoulder tip pain, and discomfort with urination or bowel movements. An ultrasound is the best diagnostic tool because it shows the embryo’s exact location.
How Do I Know If I Have an Ectopic Pregnancy?
The best way to confirm an ectopic pregnancy is with a no-cost ultrasound from our clinic. Not only does it confirm its location, but it can also verify the gestational age and whether or not the pregnancy is still viable.
We are here to help you get the answer you need so you can confidently proceed with your pregnancy. Contact us today!
