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What is an ectopic pregnancy?

Reproductive health  •  31 January 2025  • 1 min read

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Marie stopes Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that develops outside of the womb, most commonly within the fallopian tubes.

Unfortunately, when a pregnancy is ectopic, it cannot be saved. It typically needs to be taken out using medicine or surgery.

If you have had a scan that confirms the pregnancy is developing normally, your risk of ectopic pregnancy is extremely low. If you have not had a scan or the scan did not show the pregnancy because it was too early, the risk of ectopic pregnancy is still very small.

Although not everybody with an ectopic pregnancy will have symptoms, the following things are important to look out for:

· A missed period and other signs of pregnancy

· Sharp, stabbing pains in the lower tummy

· Pain in the tip of your shoulder

· Weakness, dizziness and fainting

· Vaginal bleeding

· Vomiting and/or diarrhoea

If you are experiencing any of these or you have a questions/concerns, please come to one of our clinics or see a health provider.

For more information, please contact us on 0800720005 or WhatsApp us on 0709819001.


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