Ectopic Pregnancy

Early detection with ultrasound
At London private ultrasound, we perform Transvaginal ultrasound examinations aimed at detecting ectopic pregnancies as early as the end of the 5th to 6th week of the pregnancy.  However, very early pregnancies may not yet show visible signs of ectopic or intrauterine pregnancies. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have not had any ultrasound assessment, a transvaginal ultrasound examination may be useful in excluding an ectopic pregnancy.

Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms:

• Sharp, sudden abdominal or pelvic pain
• Weakness, dizziness and or fainting
• Vaginal bleeding or a brown watery discharge
• Shoulder Pain
• Pelvic pressure or discomfort
• Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Nausea

Understanding Conception Process:

During conception, the egg and sperm meet in one of the fallopian tubes adjacent to the uterus. The narrow, thin fallopian tubes guide the sperm towards the ovulated egg, where fertilization occurs. The resulting blastocyst then travels back to the uterine cavity over 5-6 days, implanting itself into the endometrium lining of the uterus. The uterus provides the ideal environment for pregnancy, supporting fetal development over approximately 9 months.

Risks of Ectopic Pregnancy:

However, interruptions in this process can occur due to factors such as previous pelvic infections, local adhesions, or anatomical variations. In such cases, the fertilized egg may implant itself in structures like the ovary, pelvic floor, bowel, or fallopian tube, leading to an ectopic pregnancy. Unfortunately, ectopic pregnancies cannot progress normally, posing life-threatening risks. Fortunately, ectopic pregnancies are rare in the UK, and timely treatment can prevent complications. Deaths resulting from ruptured ectopic pregnancies are extremely rare.