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Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilised egg implants outside the womb, usually in a fallopian tube. It cannot survive and is a medical emergency, so early signs must not be ignored.
Causes & risk factors
- Previous pelvic infection or PID scarring the tubes
- Previous ectopic pregnancy or tubal surgery
- Endometriosis
- Pregnancy with an IUD in place
- Assisted conception (IVF) slightly raises the risk
- Often no clear cause is found
Common symptoms
- One-sided lower tummy pain
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting in early pregnancy
- Shoulder-tip pain
- Dizziness
- Fainting or collapse
- Pain when passing urine or stool
Tests & diagnosis
- Pregnancy hormone (beta-hCG)
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Blood group and Rh typing
Treatment & management
- This is an emergency — treatment is arranged in hospital
- Medicine to end an early, stable ectopic in selected cases
- Keyhole surgery to remove the pregnancy, sometimes with the tube
- Urgent surgery if there is heavy internal bleeding
- Emotional support and follow-up afterwards
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe one-sided tummy pain in early pregnancy — seek urgent care immediately
- Feeling faint, dizzy or collapsing — call for emergency help
- Shoulder-tip pain with a positive pregnancy test — urgent
- Any bleeding with pain in early pregnancy — get seen urgently
Frequently asked questions
Why is an ectopic pregnancy dangerous?
The pregnancy cannot grow safely outside the womb, and as it enlarges it can rupture the tube and cause life-threatening internal bleeding. That is why early symptoms need urgent care.
Can I have a normal pregnancy after an ectopic?
Yes, most women go on to have healthy pregnancies afterwards, though the risk of another ectopic is slightly higher. Early scans in the next pregnancy help confirm it is in the right place.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.