Ectopic pregnancy: what you need to know

What Is Ectopic Pregnancy?

  • Ectopic means the pregnancy is outside the uterus, often in the tubes.

  • About 1-2 out of 100 pregnancies are ectopic.

Abortion Pills and Ectopic Pregnancies:

  • Abortion pills don't treat ectopic pregnancies.

  • If you take abortion pills, the ectopic pregnancy usually continues if not treated.

What Increases Ectopic Pregnancy Risk?

  • Previous ectopic pregnancy.

  • Past surgery on the tubes, or in the pelvic area.

  • Chlamydia, gonorrhea, or serious uterus infections (PID).

  • Getting pregnant with an IUD in place. (It is rare to get pregnant with an IUD, but if you do, it could be ectopic).

  • If you had an ultrasound showing a pregnancy in the uterus, then you know it is not an ectopic pregnancy (twins, with one in the tubes, are very rare).

When to Be Concerned:

  • After miso, you should bleed like a heavy period.

  • If you don’t bleed, take another dose of miso.

  • If still no bleeding, or very light bleeding, or if your pregnancy symptoms do not go away in a week, contact us. We'll help you figure out what to do next.

Treatment for Ectopic Pregnancy:

  • Treatment for ectopics can be accessed in all states.

  • If untreated, ectopics can cause rupture, internal bleeding, and even death.

  • If you might have an ectopic pregnancy, Armadillo providers will help you figure out where to get care.

Emergency Signs – Call 911 and go to the emergency room if you have:

  1. Extreme pelvic pain, especially on one side. Or severe pain in your belly that is unbearable and not relieved with medications.

  2. Severe shoulder pain.

  3. Feeling very dizzy, unable to sit or stand without fainting.

Concerned About Ectopic?  Contact us.