Discovering an unexpected pregnancy is stressful enough, but learning that your pregnancy may be ectopic adds even more distress. Your healthcare provider cannot determine if your pregnancy is ectopic by examining you. A confident analysis of your pregnancy includes an obstetric ultrasound.
Coweta Pregnancy Services offers a no-cost, confidential limited obstetrical ultrasound if you’ve received a positive pregnancy test at our center. Schedule your appointment today. Continue reading to learn more about a
What Causes an Ectopic Pregnancy?
In a healthy pregnancy, the fertilized egg attaches to your uterine lining, which is called implantation. Once attached, the placenta forms, and the pregnancy continues to grow. Only the uterus can hold a growing pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. Most ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tubes (which lead to the uterus), although a fertilized egg can also be implanted in your abdominal cavity or cervix. If the pregnancy grows in one of these areas, it could become life-threatening.
Who Gets an Ectopic Pregnancy?
There is no way to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, but there are ways to decrease your risk. A woman who has the following is more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy:
- If you smoke, you are more susceptible.
- You have inflammation or an infection, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is often a result of an STI.
- A history of infertility.
- Endometriosis.
- An intrauterine device (IUD) is in place at the time of conception.
- A previous ectopic pregnancy.
What Are the Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Experts say early symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy can be similar to early pregnancy symptoms. You may experience the following:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Pain in your lower abdomen, pelvis, and lower back.
- Dizziness or weakness.
Why is an Ectopic Pregnancy Considered Dangerous?
If the pregnancy grows anywhere other than your uterus, it could rupture, causing severe pain and bleeding. If located in your fallopian tube, an ectopic pregnancy can cause the tube to burst open. Without treatment, the ruptured tube can lead to life-threatening bleeding.
How Do I Know if I Have an Ectopic Pregnancy?
The best way to determine if you have an ectopic pregnancy is to start with no-cost, confidential pregnancy testing at Coweta Pregnancy Services. A nurse or trained lay person administers the test so you can be confident you’re getting accurate results.
If your test is positive, we will schedule a no-cost, confidential limited obstetrical ultrasound to determine the location of your pregnancy.
Get the vital details about your pregnancy at Coweta Pregnancy Services. Conveniently sign up for an appointment online or call us at (770) 251-7158. We are ready to give you the information you need.