Only about 2% of all pregnancies are ectopic, but having one is extremely dangerous, even life-threatening. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and begins growing outside the uterus. Many of the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy are similar to those of a normal pregnancy.

To determine if your pregnancy is ectopic, you will need an ultrasound. You can receive a no-cost ultrasound at both Willowbrook locations. Don’t take chances. Learn more about ectopic pregnancies and the importance of an ultrasound scan.

Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy

At the beginning of an ectopic pregnancy, you may feel typical pregnancy symptoms. Ectopic pregnancies often form in your fallopian tube (which leads to the uterus). These are also called tubal pregnancies. In addition to typical pregnancy symptoms, you may also experience the following if your pregnancy is ectopic:

• Vaginal bleeding.
• Pain in your lower abdomen, pelvis, and lower back.
• Dizziness or weakness.

If the pregnancy continues to grow in your fallopian tube, it may rupture, causing severe pain and bleeding. In addition, you could experience additional symptoms:

• Fainting.
• Low blood pressure.
• Shoulder pain.
• Rectal pressure or bowel problems.

Who Is More Susceptible to Having an Ectopic Pregnancy?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the following risk factors may make you more susceptible to having an ectopic pregnancy:

• A previous ectopic pregnancy.
• Inflammation or infection, such as an STI like gonorrhea or chlamydia.
• A history of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
• A history of Infertility.
• Endometriosis.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
• Tubal surgery.
• Using specific birth control methods, such as an IUD.
• Smoking.
• Your age (women 35 to 44 are more susceptible).

There is no way to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, and unfortunately, 50% of women who have this type of pregnancy do not have any of the above risk factors.

How Can Willowbrook Help Me?

There is more than one reason to get an ultrasound other than diagnosing an ectopic pregnancy. An ultrasound can also detect if your pregnancy is viable (growing) or if you have had a miscarriage.

Experts estimate that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage. It’s possible to still get a positive pregnancy test result in the days and weeks following. In addition, an ultrasound helps determine the gestational age of your pregnancy.

Willowbrook Women’s Center offers no-cost, limited obstetric ultrasounds at both of our locations. Please make an appointment at your closest location, or call (816) 244-7824. Your health and safety are our priority.