Ectopic Pregnancy – What are the signs?

Mum, not one to get stressed over as this only affects 1 in 80 pregnancies, but you should know the signs to look out for, just in case. An ectopic pregnancy happens when the fertilised egg doesn’t reach the womb and usually implants itself in one of the fallopian tubes, which are connected to the womb. If this happens, your baby won’t be able to develop and if the pregnancy continues your health may be at risk. If an ectopic pregnancy occurs your baby may not be able to develop as the fallopian tubes cannot stretch allowing your baby to grow. If this happens then you may experience an early miscarriage and no further treatment is needed. If the pregnancy does continue then you may need treatment as a pregnancy cannot survive if ectopic and can put you at risk if it continues to grow. What are the symptoms to look out for? You may experience one or more of the following: Irregular vaginal bleeding Pain in your lower abdominal, perhaps on just one side Pain where your shoulder meets your arm Bowel or bladder issues Lightheaded, dizzy or faint If you are pregnant and experience any of the following, then speak to a doctor or midwife.