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.
Can someone be genetically predisposed to ectopic pregnancies?
There is no strong evidence indicating a genetic predisposition for the development of an ectopic pregnancy.
How early can an ultrasound detect an ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic woman usually presents above 6 weeks from the last menstrual period. A transvaginal scan is only one part of the investigation of a possible ectopic pregnancy. Others include a clinical history, physical examination including pulse and blood pressure and a qualitative blood hcg measurement. A transvaginal scan rarely identifies a heartbeat outside the uterine cavity
What information is available on the surgical management of ectopic pregnancy?
Surgical management is usually performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) and involves the removal of the portion of the Fallopian tube containing the ectopic pregnancy. Depending on the clinical picture, occasionally the surgery is preferred open through a becinacal incision on the abdomen. See the video section on the ectopic pregnancy foundation website
Does an ectopic pregnancy hurt all the time?
In the early stages of an ectopic pregnancy, pain may not be a symptom as the ectopic pregnancy enlarges the Fallopian tube and causes one-sided lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort or pain. If the ectopic pregnancy continues the tube can rupture leading to intrabdominal bleeding which can cause shoulder tip pain. See the symptoms of ectopic pregnancy section on the website.
How can I get support emotional support?
An Ectopic Pregnancy can have severe emotional consequences which can be overlooked. Some people have found it helpful to share their experiences and this can be done on the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website. A GP may be able to refer you for counselling.
The Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation is committed to emotional support and our goal would be to provide this. We don’t get any central funding but rely on charitable donations and any donations would be gratefully received and would go to patient support see how to donate on the ectopic pregnancy foundation website.
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