Signs & Symptoms of Early Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy takes place when a fertilized egg implants outside your uterus. Over 95 percent of these pregnancies develop in the fallopian tubes, according to KidsHealth.Org. Knowing the signs and symptoms of early ectopic pregnancy can lead to a quicker diagnosis and more prompt medical treatment, which may mean the difference between life and death for you.

  1. Pain

    • Shooting abdominal or pelvic pain accompanies most early ectopic pregnancies, with some women also experiencing shoulder or neck pain (caused by internal bleeding).

    Vaginal Bleeding

    • Abnormal vaginal bleeding or spotting typically occurs with early ectopic pregnancy, especially if you've already missed a period or have had a positive pregnancy test.

    Weakness or Fainting

    • Weakness and fainting frequently accompany the loss of blood that you experience with early ectopic pregnancy, especially when you have internal bleeding from a ruptured ectopic pregnancy.

    Shock

    • According to the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, shock---characterized by dizziness, confusion, shallow breathing and low blood pressure---is the first recognized symptom for close to 20 percent of women with ectopic pregnancies.

    Considerations

    • Although it can be life-threatening, early ectopic pregnancy is sometimes difficult to identify. If you experience any signs or symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, contact your doctor or the emergency room immediately for medical treatment.

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