What you need to know:
The word "ectopic" means "out of place." In an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus and begins to grow. Sadly, an ectopic pregnancy cannot result in the birth of a baby. Without prompt treatment, it can cause internal bleeding and threaten the life of the pregnant woman.
An ectopic pregnancy often must be removed surgically. In some cases, ectopic pregnancy can be treated with drug therapy.
About 50 to 80 percent of women who have had an ectopic pregnancy go on to have a normal pregnancy.
What you can do:
Call your health care provider if you notice slight, irregular vaginal bleeding a week or more after you miss your period. The blood may be brownish in color. The bleeding may be followed by pain in the lower abdomen, often on one side. Without treatment, the pain will get worse and may be accompanied by shoulder pain, faintness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting.
If you do have an ectopic pregnancy, allow yourself time to recover physically and to grieve the loss of your pregnancy. The March of Dimes provides
information for grieving families.
