An ectopic pregnancy is a serious complication some women may experience. A typical developing pregnancy travels down the fallopian tube into the uterus to implant after conception. With an ectopic pregnancy, the pregnancy mistakenly implants outside of the uterus.
Implantation can occur in the fallopian tubes, the abdomen, ovaries, or cervix.
Can an Ectopic Pregnancy Harm Me?
Yes, it can. The uterus is the only part of a woman’s reproductive tract that has the capacity to stretch significantly as a pregnancy grows. If a pregnancy grows in the fallopian tube, for example, it will quickly become larger than the tube and can cause the tube to rupture, creating massive and life-threatening internal bleeding.
How Can I Know If I Have an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Some women may have symptoms that include vaginal bleeding, pain in the lower abdomen or back, dizziness, or weakness. However, these symptoms are very common in early pregnancy and can easily be overlooked.
The only sure way to know if you have an ectopic pregnancy is by getting an ultrasound. An ultrasound can quickly determine where your pregnancy is located and will aid your doctor in creating a plan to safeguard your health.
Do Abortion Bans Impact Ectopic Pregnancies?
Misinformation has been rampant recently in states where abortion bans are in place, stating that a woman cannot have an ectopic pregnancy removed. Thankfully this is false, as removing an ectopic pregnancy falls under prenatal care and is not an abortion.
Is The Abortion Pill Effective Against An Ectopic Pregnancy?
No, the abortion pill is not effective against an ectopic pregnancy. Taking the abortion pill when you have an ectopic pregnancy will result in an incomplete abortion and require prompt medical intervention.
Where To Have An Ultrasound
If you’ve recently had a positive pregnancy test, getting an ultrasound is the only way to protect yourself against an ectopic pregnancy.
Crisis Pregnancy Center offers free limited ultrasounds so you can get the answers you need to make a confident and informed decision about your pregnancy. Start with a free pregnancy test.
Appointments are easy to schedule and always confidential. Call us at 812-393-3857 and let us know how we can support you today!