What Is An Ectopic Pregnancy?

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Ectopic pregnancy is an unsafe pregnancy that has implanted and is located somewhere other than the uterus. The uterus is where pregnancies should implant for continued growth and development. When an ectopic pregnancy occurs, immediate medical intervention will be needed to help protect the health and safety of the woman.

How Are Ectopic Pregnancies Diagnosed?

Depending on the location, size and growth of an ectopic pregnancy, women may experience symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, back pain, lightheadedness, fainting, and shoulder pain.

To diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, a medical professional will order blood tests and an ultrasound to investigate if an ectopic pregnancy is present. Blood tests will look to confirm a pregnancy by measuring levels of a hormone called Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, or HCG, which is present during pregnancy. HCG is the same hormone at-home pregnancy tests and medical-grade pregnancy tests can detect in urine.

Ultrasound imaging will also be utilized in combination with pregnancy tests to confirm and evaluate the location of a pregnancy.

How Are Ectopic Pregnancies Treated?

Unfortunately, ectopic pregnancies are not viable and will not be able to survive outside the uterus. Treatment is needed to help protect a woman’s health.

Medical and/or Surgical treatment will vary depending on the condition, symptoms, location, and gestational age of an ectopic pregnancy when it is suspected or discovered.

Some treatments include:

• Medication can possibly treat an ectopic pregnancy if it has not ruptured.
• Laparoscopic procedures which are surgeries that allow surgeons to remove an ectopic pregnancy without having to make a large incision.
• Emergency surgery

Where Can I Go For A Free Ultrasound and Pregnancy Confirmation?

Here at Soundview Pregnancy Services, our affiliated medical professionals offer ultrasounds at no cost to you. Contact us today for a free, confidential appointment where we provide free pregnancy testing, options counseling, and more.

We are here to help you get the care you deserve while providing support and encouragement. No matter your decision or situation, we look forward to meeting and serving you!