When a fertilized egg is implanted outside of the uterus, such as in the fallopian tubes, an ectopic pregnancy results.
Signs of a possible ectopic pregnancy include:
- Shoulder pain
- Extreme lightheadedness or fainting
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain with vaginal bleeding
If left untreated, ectopic pregnancies are very dangerous and require medical intervention. If a woman learns that she has an ectopic pregnancy, she must seek immediate medical attention.
What Causes Ectopic Pregnancies?
There is no way to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, but there are certain risk factors that make it more likely to have one. These include:
- A history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- A previous ectopic pregnancy
- A history of infertility
- Surgery performed on the fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)
- An intrauterine device (IUD)
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- A history of smoking
How Will I Know if I Have an Ectopic Pregnancy?
You will first need to confirm your pregnancy with lab-quality pregnancy testing. You will also want to receive an ultrasound, which will identify where the pregnancy is located and determine whether you have an ectopic pregnancy.
Additional testing may be needed to learn more about your pregnancy. At Bright Hope Pregnancy Support Centers, we offer no-cost and confidential limited ultrasounds, which can determine location of pregnancy, gestational age, and viability of pregnancy.
Have More Questions?
If you have more questions about ectopic pregnancies or are facing an unplanned pregnancy, we are here for you! You are not alone, and we would love to help you during this time.
Contact us today to schedule free and confidential medical services, parenting resources, STI testing, support services, and options counseling. You deserve to have all of the information needed to make an informed decision! Bright Hope Pregnancy Support Centers will be with you every step of the way.
