Dear nikkib91,

An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that develops outside of the uterus. Rarely, they develop in an ovary or in the abdominal cavity. Most often, they develop in one of the fallopian tubes. These pregnancies are also called tubal pregnancies. Tubal pregnancies cannot not be continued. All ectopic pregnancies are emergencies that threaten the life of the woman.

If it is not treated with surgery or medication, the growth of the embryo in a tubal pregnancy will rupture the fallopian tube and may cause internal bleeding. This could cause infection and death for the woman. Tubal pregnancy always results in the death of the embryo.

Very early in pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy can seem like a normal pregnancy to the woman. She may have the symptoms of pregnancy, like a missed period, breast tenderness, fatigue, and nausea.

Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include

• severe abdominal pain on one side of the body or severe shoulder pain
• cramps and spotting early in the pregnancy
• vaginal bleeding
• nausea and vomiting
• fainting spells or dizziness

If you have any symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, contact your health care provider right away.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.