Ectopic Pregnancy – What you need to know

Before taking any action surrounding your pregnancy, you need to be aware of the risk of an ectopic pregnancy for your health

Maybe you just got a positive pregnancy test, and are considering a medical abortion. How does this information relate to you and your situation? We want to equip you with accurate medical information to best support your health. An ectopic pregnancy is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, and one that every woman should be made aware of surrounding her pregnancy. 

What is an ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside of the womb, typically in the fallopian tube. The normal course of a pregnancy is that the fertilized egg travels through your fallopian tubes to then implant in the wall of your uterus. In an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants in the fallopian tube along the way. The danger is that the fallopian tubes do not have the space to support the embryo’s growth, so there is a great risk of the fallopian tube rupturing. This rupture can cause potentially life-threatening bleeding. 

What are some of the symptoms? 

Initially, you may not notice any unusual pregnancy symptoms. However, there are some symptoms to watch out for that can indicate an ectopic pregnancy:

• Pelvic pain in your lower abdomen or back
• Shoulder pain 
• May or may not be Vaginal bleeding or spotting 
• Bowel problems 

 If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should seek medical advice immediately. 

What if you are considering an abortion?

It is crucial to know that a medical abortion will not end an ectopic pregnancy. A medical abortion’s effects are directed on the uterus and its contents, which is not where the ectopic pregnancy is located. In fact, the taking of  mifepristone and misoprostol can risk masking your ectopic symptoms, as many of the symptoms a woman experiences post-abortion overlap with ectopic symptoms. If undiagnosed, you could experience the rupture of your fallopian tubes and potentially life-threatening bleeding. 

What can I do to protect my health and find answers? 

It is crucial that you identify the location of your pregnancy, through an ultrasound, before taking any action and to best advocate for your health. Running the risk of an undetected ectopic pregnancy can become a medical emergency. Your health and well-being is worth the research. The Front Royal Pregnancy Center offers ultrasounds at no cost to you. Our priority is your health and wellbeing. We want to support you during this time by setting up a consultation with one of our nurses, providing you with medical information and discussing your options.

You deserve to have your reproductive health protected, and we want to empower you with key information and support to make informed decisions. Schedule your consultation with us today!

By Michelle Kelly

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