The short answer is an ultrasound. It confirms the pregnancy’s location and whether the pregnancy is developing normally. If you’re wondering whether your pregnancy could be ectopic, that question is reason enough to get checked. Schedule a free, confidential appointment at Alpha Omega Center for pregnancy testing and a limited ultrasound following a positive test.
What Makes a Pregnancy Ectopic
A normal pregnancy begins when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. In an ectopic pregnancy, the egg implants somewhere else, most often in a fallopian tube. The fallopian tube cannot expand to hold a growing embryo. Without early detection and treatment, it can rupture and cause life-threatening internal bleeding.
An ectopic pregnancy is not viable, and it cannot be treated with abortion procedures. It requires its own medical treatment.
Symptoms That Warrant Attention
Early symptoms can look identical to a normal pregnancy: a missed period, nausea, and breast tenderness. As the condition progresses, more specific warning signs may develop:
- Sharp or one-sided pelvic or abdominal pain
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shoulder pain (a sign of internal bleeding)
- Fainting
If any of these symptoms are intensifying, seek emergency medical care right away.
What an Ultrasound Confirms
A positive pregnancy test tells you that you’re pregnant. An ultrasound shows the location of the pregnancy, an estimated gestational age, and whether the pregnancy is progressing normally, confirmed by a fetal heartbeat. Since ectopic pregnancy can become a medical emergency, early detection is important for protecting your health and future fertility.
Get a Free Ultrasound at Alpha Omega Center
Alpha Omega Center offers free, confidential pregnancy services to confirm important details and safeguard your health. If signs of an ectopic pregnancy are found, we will connect you with the appropriate medical care.
Schedule your free, confidential appointment today. Call or text (724) 698-2689.