Every month, we will identify the most commonly asked questions about ectopic pregnancy and answer them. If you have any further questions that you cannot find the answer to on the website, please contact us.
Is lower abdominal pain a symptom of ectopic pregnancy?
Pain is one symptom of ectopic pregnancy. It is usually unilateral pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. The pain is usually constant as opposed to bilateral cramping pains, which are common in a miscarriage (see list of symptoms on the Ectopic Pregnancy Foundation website).
Why does ectopic pregnancy happen in IVF?
In simple terms, in IVF, a fertilised embryo is placed in the uterine cavity, but can occasionally move up and implant in the Fallopian tube, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy.
Does ectopic pregnancy affect the colour of my bleeding?
The classic vaginal loss is described as almost prune juice in appearance rather than fresh blood that occurs in a miscarriage.
What is Polycyclic Ovarian Syndrome?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common gynaecological condition. Its common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles and weight gain, especially on the arms and abdomen. Other symptoms include facial spots, greasy skin and problems with fertility. A transvaginal scan shows multiple small cysts in a classic pearl necklace appearance. Blood tests show a ratio of greater than 3 to one and a raised testosterone level. PCOS is a recognised risk factor for the development of an ectopic pregnancy (see the section on PCOS on the ectopic pregnancy foundation website)
Can an Ectopic Pregnancy ever go full-term?
An Ectopic Pregnancy is a pregnancy outside the uterine cavity, usually in the Fallopian tube. Thus, it’s not possible for an Ectopic Pregnancy to go to term, and there has never been a reported case.
Skip to content