Ectopic pregnancy

Need to know

• Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy icon plus

  • a missed period, sickness or breast swelling (typical symptoms of pregnancy)
  • vaginal bleeding
  • tummy pain low down on one side
  • pain in the top of your shoulder
  • discomfort when urinating or passing stools

• Diagnosis icon plus

  It can be difficult to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy because many of its symptoms can be associated with other conditions. Your consultant may refer you for: 

  • A transvaginal ultrasound. This checks the development of the foetus. It involves inserting a small probe into your vagina.
  • A blood test to monitor hormone levels associated with pregnancy.
  • Keyhole surgery. If it's still unclear whether you have an ectopic pregnancy your consultant may recommend surgery. They will use a laparoscope (a small surgical instrument with a camera on the end) to examine your womb and fallopian tubes directly.

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  Unfortunately, the baby cannot be saved in an ectopic pregnancy. There are a number of treatment options for the mother. 

  • Close monitoring to see if the pregnancy dissolves by itself.
  • Administering a medicine to stop the fetus from growing. This is given as a single injection in the buttocks.
  • Keyhole surgery may be undertaken to remove the pregnancy before the fetus becomes too large.