What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
It is important to know if you have an ectopic pregnancy because it can be a life-threatening condition if not diagnosed and treated promptly. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can cause the fallopian tube to rupture, leading to severe internal bleeding, possible complications and even death. Therefore, early detection and medical intervention are crucial to prevent serious harm to the mother.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy may include…
- abdominal pain
- vaginal bleeding
- shoulder pain
- dizziness/fainting
- nausea/vomiting
It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have an ectopic pregnancy.
How is ectopic pregnancy diagnosed?
Ectopic pregnancies can be diagnosed with
-
- A pelvic exam
- An ultrasound exam
- Blood test for a pregnancy hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
Options Women’s Care Center provides FREE ultrasounds to help rule out an ectopic pregnancy. Text today to schedule an appointment.
How is it treated?
According to ACOG, there are two methods used to treat an ectopic pregnancy:
1) Medication – Methotrexate is the most common drug used to treat ectopic pregnancy. This drug ends the pregnancy by stopping cell growth. The body will absorb the pregnancy over the next 4 to 6 weeks. This medication usually requires one injection. This process does not require the removal of a fallopian tube.
2) Surgery – Emergency surgery is required if the fallopian tube ruptures due to the ectopic pregnancy. There are times when surgery is needed even if the fallopian tube has not ruptured. ACOG indicates “In these cases, the ectopic pregnancy can be removed from the tube, or the entire tube with the pregnancy can be removed.”
Is the treatment for an ectopic pregnancy an abortion?
Treatment for an ectopic pregnancy is an emergency medical procedure. The pregnancy is not viable, meaning it cannot live, outside of the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy requires medical intervention.
An abortion is an elective procedure to end a viable pregnancy. Secondly, the abortion pill will not take care of an ectopic pregnancy. The pregnancy has to be implanted in the uterus for the abortion pill to terminate the pregnancy. Therefore, these are two completely different procedures.
Call or Text today to schedule your ultrasound before making a decision about your pregnancy.