Although rare, knowing whether or not your pregnancy is ectopic can potentially save your life. The best way to learn if your pregnancy is ectopic is with an ultrasound. Choices Options for Women's Health offers free, confidential pregnancy testing. If your test is positive, you could receive a free limited ultrasound. Find out how you can qualify.
What Does Ectopic Mean?
The word "ectopic" actually means "out of place." Typically, a fertilized egg implants inside a woman's uterus during pregnancy. However, with an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants somewhere else, usually in a fallopian tube, which leads to the uterus.
An ectopic pregnancy cannot grow and develop normally. Only the uterus can hold a growing pregnancy. If the pregnancy grows anywhere else, it could become life-threatening. Without proper treatment, complications like severe bleeding can occur.
What Are the 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
Emergency symptoms can occur if a fallopian tube ruptures. These symptoms include:
- Fainting
- Extreme lightheadedness
- Shock
Don't delay seeking medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
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 Choices Options for Women's Health Help 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, verifying the pregnancy's location is critical. Your healthcare provider may need to perform another procedure.
We offer free limited OB ultrasounds after a positive in-clinic pregnancy test to provide vital information, including a pregnancy's location. We care about your health and safety. Take advantage of our free services today.
Conveniently schedule an appointment online, text, or call 732-516-0911. We're here to help you.
Choices Options for Women does not provide or refer for abortion.