Ectopic Pregnancy
Definition
An ectopic pregnancy is an abnormal pregnancy that occurs outside the womb (uterus). The baby cannot survive.
Symptoms
* Abnormal vaginal bleeding
* Amenorrhea
* Breast tenderness
* Low back pain
* Mild cramping on one side of the pelvis
* Nausea
* Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
If the area of the abnormal pregnancy ruptures and bleeds, symptoms may get worse. They may include:
* Feeling faint or actually fainting
* Pain that is felt in the shoulder area
* Severe, sharp, and sudden pain in the lower abdomen
Internal bleeding due to a rupture may lead to shock. Shock is the first symptom of almost 20% of ectopic pregnancies.
