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What are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?

Many ectopic pregnancies show no signs or symptoms until the fallopian tube ruptures. Other than the general signs of being pregnant, some early signs and symptoms of ectopic pregnancy can include lower abdominal pain, cramping and vaginal bleeding. Signs and symptoms that occur after a fallopian tube has ruptured include severe pain, vaginal bleeding, light-headedness or dizziness, reduction in blood pressure, fainting and shock. It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible, as there can be large amounts of internal bleeding after a fallopian tube rupture.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is an ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy is the formation of an embryo at a site other than the uterus, usually within a fallopian tube. In some cases, your body will initiate a miscarriage, while in other cases the embryo will continue to grow in the abnormal location, which can …

What causes an ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when an embryo implants in a place other than the uterus, usually a fallopian tube. This occurs when an embryo cannot travel through a fallopian tube because it has been blocked, narrowed, damaged, or is abnormal. This can be …

Who can be affected an ectopic pregnancy?

Any woman can have an ectopic pregnancy. For one third of women presenting with the condition, it is their first pregnancy. There is an increased risk for people who have had pelvic inflammatory disease, or if an ectopic pregnancy has occurred in …

How is an ectopic pregnancy diagnosed?

An ectopic pregnancy is assumed to be a potential diagnosis if you have a positive pregnancy test and no pregnancy can be found in the uterus when an ultrasound is performed. If this is the case, the person performing the ultrasound will look for an …

How is an ectopic pregnancy treated?

As an ectopic pregnancy will unfortunately not be able to reach full-term, it is important to stop the growth as soon as it is recognized. This reduces the risks of complications including damage or rupture of the fallopian tube and internal bleeding. …

Can an ectopic pregnancy be prevented?

No, an ectopic pregnancy cannot be prevented, but the risk can be reduced by avoiding or treating any conditions that can affect the fallopian tubes, particularly sexually-transmitted infections.

How common is an ectopic pregnancy?

Ectopic pregnancies occur in about one in 100 pregnancies.

Can I become pregnant after an ectopic pregnancy?

Yes, it is still possible to have a normal pregnancy after an ectopic pregnancy, although you are at higher risk of ectopic pregnancies in the future.

Will an ectopic pregnancy result in a baby?

No. As an ectopic pregnancy occurs in a location other than the uterus, it will not be able to develop to full-term and will not result in a baby.

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About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 14 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Votes: 1064 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Placental abruption

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