Welcome to Laurie’s Big Blog – December 2024

Every month we will identify the most commonly asked questions about ectopic pregnancy and answer them. If you have any further questions which you cannot find answers to on the website, please can you contact us.

What organ does ectopic pregnancy take place in most?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterine cavity. The most common location for this is within the Fallopian tubes, but in rare cases, it can also occur in the cervix, ovary, or in a uterine scar, which is most often associated with a previous cesarean section. For more information, please refer to the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website on ectopic pregnancy sites.

Is it possible to have an ectopic pregnancy without pain?

In the early stages of an ectopic pregnancy, a person may not experience any pain or symptoms. However, as the pregnancy grows, it can lead to unilateral pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort or pain. If the pregnancy ruptures and causes intra-abdominal bleeding, severe abdominal pain may occur, along with pain in the shoulder tip.

Is bowel pain a symptom of ectopic pregnancy?

Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy in the early stages often include lower abdominal discomfort or pain. This can sometimes lead healthcare professionals to mistakenly diagnose it as irritable bowel syndrome. Such misdiagnoses or delays in recognising the condition can result in significant health complications and even maternal mortality. For more information, refer to the section on symptoms and diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy on the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website.

Can endometriosis be a contributory factor in ectopic pregnancy?

Endometriosis is an increasingly common gynecological condition that may affect 1 in 10 women in the United Kingdom. Diagnosing this condition can be challenging and often requires a diagnostic or treatment laparoscopy. For more information, you can visit the section on endometriosis on the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website.

How can I support research into preventing and treating ectopic pregnancy?

Research into the diagnosis and treatment of ectopic pregnancy is crucial. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) website offers information on ongoing research in this area.
Funds donated to the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation are used to provide information on the causes, symptoms, and steps to take if you suspect you may have an ectopic pregnancy. Additionally, we offer a helpline staffed by healthcare professionals, available 24 hours a day. For information on how to donate, please visit the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website.