An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy in which a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. It cannot continue to a birth and needs urgent medical attention.
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy often appear between weeks 4 and 12 of pregnancy, but some people have none at first. Signs can include pain low in the tummy on one side, vaginal bleeding or brown discharge, pain at the tip of the shoulder, and discomfort when going to the toilet. A positive pregnancy test with these symptoms needs prompt medical advice.
A growing pregnancy in a fallopian tube can cause the tube to burst, which leads to serious internal bleeding. Sudden sharp tummy pain, feeling dizzy or faint, or looking very pale are signs to call emergency services straight away.
Treatment options include close monitoring, medicine or surgery, often keyhole surgery (laparoscopy). The right choice depends on symptoms, scan results and hormone levels, and a doctor will explain the options.
Losing a pregnancy this way can be both physically and emotionally hard. People may need time off to recover from treatment, attend follow-up blood tests and grieve. Compassionate leave, a gradual return and privacy about the reason for absence can help. Support is available through a GP, an early pregnancy unit and pregnancy loss charities.
Sources: NHS, MedlinePlus.
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