Although a pregnancy test can detect hCG, there are still details you need to understand about your pregnancy. One of those details is where the pregnancy is developing.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy cannot continue normally and can become life-threatening if it ruptures and causes internal bleeding.
Knowing the warning signs and seeking medical care when needed can help protect your health.
Alpha House PRC provides free, lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to help you learn more about your pregnancy. While our limited ultrasound cannot diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, it can provide information about where the pregnancy is developing.
Schedule your appointment today to get the answers you need and read on to learn more about what an ectopic pregnancy is.
Why an Ectopic Pregnancy Can Be Hard to Recognize
An ectopic pregnancy may not cause noticeable symptoms at first. Early signs can also look similar to a typical pregnancy, including a missed period, nausea, breast tenderness, and a positive pregnancy test.
Some women may have an ectopic pregnancy without having any known risk factors. However, certain factors can increase the likelihood, including:
- A previous ectopic pregnancy
- Surgery involving the fallopian tubes
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Endometriosis
- Certain sexually transmitted infections
- Fertility treatments, including IVF
- A history of infertility
- Smoking
Know the Warning Signs
As an ectopic pregnancy develops, symptoms may become more noticeable.
Possible warning signs include:
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain or cramping on one side
- Lower back pain
More serious symptoms can occur if an ectopic pregnancy ruptures and causes internal bleeding.
These may include sudden or severe abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder pain, weakness, severe dizziness, or fainting. If you experience any of these symptoms seek emergency medical care immediately.
Get a Clearer Picture of Your Pregnancy
A pregnancy test result does not show where the pregnancy is developing.
When an ectopic pregnancy is suspected, a healthcare provider may use ultrasound imaging, blood tests that measure hCG levels, and other medical evaluations to determine what is happening.
A limited ultrasound at our center can also provide information about the pregnancy’s location, gestational age, and signs of development. If an ectopic pregnancy is suspected, further evaluation by a qualified medical provider is needed.
This information can be especially important if you are considering abortion. The abortion pill cannot be used for an ectopic pregnancy, so knowing where the pregnancy is developing is an important part of understanding your medical circumstances.
We Are Here To Help
Learning that you are pregnant can bring questions about your health and what comes next. At Alpha House we provide free pregnancy services and can help you understand how your pregnancy is developing.
We also provide information about your pregnancy options in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
If you are experiencing severe pain, heavy bleeding, dizziness, fainting, or other emergency symptoms, seek medical care immediately rather than waiting for an appointment.
Get in touch today to schedule your confidential appointment.
