What You Need to Know About Ectopic Pregnancy

July 11, 2025

What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

A typical pregnancy begins when a fertilized egg travels down the fallopian tube and implants in the lining of the uterus, where it can grow and develop.

An ectopic pregnancy happens when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in one of the fallopian tubes. This is often called a tubal pregnancy, though ectopic pregnancies can also occur in other locations such as the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix (though these are much less common).

Because these locations do not have the structure or space to support a growing baby, ectopic pregnancies are not viable, they cannot be carried to term, and they pose a serious risk to the woman’s health if not treated promptly.

Why Is It Dangerous?

An ectopic pregnancy can grow for a time, but as it develops, it can cause the area where it’s implanted to stretch, rupture, or bleed. This can lead to:

  • Severe internal bleeding
  • Damage to reproductive organs
  • Life-threatening complications

Ectopic pregnancy is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in the first trimester. That’s why early detection and immediate medical care are essential!

Is Treating an Ectopic Pregnancy Considered an Abortion?

No. Treating an ectopic pregnancy is not an abortion. It is a medically necessary, life-saving intervention and is legal in all 50 states.

Abortion refers to the intentional termination of a viable pregnancy within the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies never occur in the uterus and cannot result in the birth of a baby. In fact, allowing an ectopic pregnancy to continue can be fatal.

When an ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed, medical professionals will work to:

  • Preserve the woman’s life
  • Protect her future fertility if possible
  • Prevent severe complications

This distinction is crucial and it’s one we want every woman to understand clearly.

What Causes an Ectopic Pregnancy?

Ectopic pregnancies can happen to anyone, but certain risk factors may increase the chances:

  • History of ectopic pregnancy
  • Women with endometriosis
  • Scarring or damage to the fallopian tubes from surgery or infection
  • Use of fertility treatments, or known fertility issues
  • History of sexually transmitted diseases
  • Becoming pregnant while using an IUD or after tubal ligation
  • Smoking
  • Women aged above 35

However, many women who experience an ectopic pregnancy have no known risk factors. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and seek help if something doesn’t feel right.

Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy

In the early stages, an ectopic pregnancy may feel like a normal pregnancy, with signs such as a missed period, breast tenderness, and nausea.

But as the pregnancy develops in the wrong location, warning signs may appear, including:

  • Light vaginal bleeding
  • Pelvic pain (sometimes sharp or localized to one side)
  • Shoulder pain (caused by internal bleeding irritating the diaphragm)
  • Sharp abdominal cramps
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Feeling dizzy or faint
  • Low blood pressure or signs of shock (in severe cases)

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they worsen quickly, it is critical to seek emergency medical care immediately.

How Is an Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosed?

The only way to definitively diagnose an ectopic pregnancy is through a combination of:

  1. Ultrasound imaging to determine if the pregnancy is in the uterus
  2. Blood tests to measure human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels—abnormal patterns may indicate ectopic pregnancy
  3. Clinical evaluation of symptoms and medical history

At Amnion, we provide free pregnancy testing and limited obstetrical ultrasounds to help determine the location and viability of your pregnancy. If we detect anything that might indicate an ectopic pregnancy, we will immediately refer you to a local medical provider or hospital for further testing and treatment.

How Is an Ectopic Pregnancy Treated?

Treatment depends on how early the ectopic pregnancy is detected and the woman’s overall health.

There are two main treatment options:

  1. Medication (Methotrexate)

If the ectopic pregnancy is found early and hasn’t ruptured, doctors may use methotrexate, a medication that stops cell growth and allows the body to absorb the pregnancy tissue naturally. This method preserves the fallopian tube in many cases.

  1. Surgery

If the pregnancy has progressed or there are signs of rupture, emergency laparoscopic surgery may be needed to remove the ectopic pregnancy and repair or remove the damaged fallopian tube.

In rare cases, more extensive surgery may be required depending on the location of the pregnancy and the amount of internal bleeding.

Can You Get Pregnant Again After an Ectopic Pregnancy?

Yes! Many women who have had an ectopic pregnancy go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future. However, the risk of another ectopic pregnancy may be higher depending on how the initial pregnancy was treated and any existing reproductive conditions.

After treatment, your healthcare provider will typically recommend:

  • Waiting a few months before trying again
  • Monitoring early pregnancies closely with bloodwork and ultrasound
  • Getting STI screening and treatment, if applicable

If you’ve had an ectopic pregnancy in the past, it’s wise to schedule an early ultrasound as soon as you suspect you may be pregnant again.

How Amnion Can Help

At Amnion Pregnancy Center, our role is to walk alongside you with accurate information, pregnancy care, and compassionate support.

Here’s what we offer—always 100% free and confidential:

  • Pregnancy testing
  • Limited obstetrical ultrasounds to confirm pregnancy location and viability
  • STD testing and treatment (which may help reduce risk factors)
  • Referrals for additional medical care if an ectopic pregnancy is suspected
  • Emotional support and resources no matter what you’re facing

We’re here to support your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Final Thoughts

An ectopic pregnancy is a serious medical condition, but with early detection and proper treatment, your health and future fertility can be protected. If you are experiencing symptoms, don’t wait: seek help right away.

Even if you don’t feel the mentioned symptoms, a FREE ultrasound at Amnion can help rule out complications and give you peace of mind. Every woman deserves to know what’s happening in her body and to receive care that honors her life and her future.

Request to schedule an appointment for a FREE ultrasound or STD testing here or speak with someone directly by calling us at 610.622.9957.

All of our services are free and fully confidential.

*Ectopic Pregnancy article published by the Mayo Clinic [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088]

*Ectopic Pregnancy article published by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists [https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/ectopic-pregnancy]

*Ectopic Pregnancy article published by Johns Hopkins Medicine [https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/ectopic-pregnancy]

Amnion Pregnancy Center is a life-affirming medical center. We do not perform or refer for abortions, but we are here to provide honest information, free services, and caring, confidential support.