Although ectopic pregnancies are rare, knowing whether you are one of the 2% to have one is vital. Pregnancies cannot continue if they’re ectopic and can become life-threatening. Having an ultrasound is the best way to determine if a pregnancy is ectopic.
New Life Pregnancy Resource Center offers no-cost, confidential pregnancy testing. You may also qualify for a no-cost ultrasound if your test is positive. Schedule an appointment today to get the information you need to protect your health and safety.
How Does an Ectopic Pregnancy Happen?
An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a woman’s fallopian tube (which leads to the uterus). Only the uterus can hold a growing pregnancy. If the pregnancy grows anywhere else, it could become life-threatening.
Are There Symptoms?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, these could be some of the symptoms:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Pain in your lower abdomen, pelvis, and lower back
- Dizziness or weakness
What Causes an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Most ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tubes, although a fertilized egg can also implant in your abdominal cavity or cervix. The following are some of the reasons a fertilized egg may not be able to travel from your fallopian tube to the uterus:
- You have scar tissue from a previous surgery
- Your fallopian tubes have damage from an STD/STI
- You were born with an irregularly-shaped fallopian tube
- You have a growth blocking your fallopian tube
What Happens if the Pregnancy Grows in the Fallopian Tube?
If the pregnancy grows in your fallopian tube, it could rupture, causing severe pain and bleeding. Other symptoms could include:
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Shoulder pain
- Rectal pressure or bowel problems
Are There Risk Factors for Getting an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Some risk factors increase your chance of getting an ectopic pregnancy. They are:
- A previous ectopic pregnancy
- A history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Surgery on your fallopian tubes
- A history of infertility
- Treatment for infertility with in vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Endometriosis
- STDs/STIs
- An IUD in place
- A history of smoking tobacco
How Can New Life Pregnancy Resource Center Assist Me?
An ultrasound is the easiest way to determine if your pregnancy is developing in the correct location. Even if you are considering having an abortion for your unexpected pregnancy, an ultrasound is critical.
Read 3 Reasons You Need an Ultrasound Before an Abortion to learn all the reasons why. At New Life, our medical care team provides various no-cost pregnancy services. We care about your health and safety. Take advantage of our no-cost services today.
Conveniently schedule an appointment online or call 989-732-1626. We’re here to help you.
New Life does not provide or refer for abortions.