Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment

What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy, also known as a Pregnancy of Unknown Location (PUL), is when a pregnancy is developing outside of the womb. This is determined through an ultrasound or transvaginal examination; if the pregnancy isn’t seen in the womb, but a patient has a positive pregnancy test, the pregnancy could be  developing in an unsafe location such as the fallopian tubes. This is potentially life-threatening for the pregnant person. Ectopic pregnancies can occur for many reasons, including:

• Previous ectopic pregnancies
• After having surgery on the fallopian tubes or sterilisation
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or other health conditions can increase the chances of complications in pregnancy
• An intrauterine device or the copper coil can cause ectopic pregnancies if inserted when there is a risk the person may already be pregnant.
• Fertility treatments such as IVF can increase the chances of ectopic pregnancies

*Abortion treatment does NOT cause future ectopic pregnancies. There is no link between the termination of a pregnancy and fertility issues or increased chances of future pregnancy complications.

What are the Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy?

Around 1 in 80 people experience this type of pregnancy. Early signs of ectopic pregnancy can include:

• Lower abdominal pain, usually severe and on one side
• Pain under the ribs or in the shoulder
• Vaginal bleeding
• Feeling faint and unwell

If you are experiencing any of these signs, contact NUPAS on 0333 004 6666 or call 111. In an emergency situation please call 999.

If you are visiting NUPAS for abortion care and the ultrasound scan couldn’t locate the pregnancy, as long as you are feeling well, then you may be asked to return in a week for another scan. If there is still no sign of the pregnancy, then you’ll be referred to an early pregnancy assessment unit. These specialists can take more tests to confirm or exclude an ectopic pregnancy.

If we have any concerns when you attend for your initial appointment with us, we may advise you to be seen by an early pregnancy assessment unit rather than returning for another scan with us.

Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment Vs Abortion Care

Abortion treatment refers to terminating a pregnancy within the womb, and as an ectopic pregnancy is located elsewhere, this is not medically considered an abortion.

An ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening; therefore, termination is vital and exists within the spectrum of life-saving care during pregnancy. This care cannot be provided by NUPAS, and is considered an emergency situation.  

The main treatment options for an ectopic pregnancy are:

-Expectant management, where you will be carefully monitored to see whether treatment is necessary.

-Medication called methotrexate is used to stop the pregnancy growing.

-Surgery, is used to remove the pregnancy, sometimes along with the affected fallopian tube.

The hospital providing your care will discuss and consider the most suitable and safe option for you.

For further information on the treatment options Ectopic pregnancy – NHS.

*Abortion pills for ectopic pregnancy do NOT work effectively, as this method is designed to expel a foetus from the womb.

Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment for Intended Pregnancies

NUPAS understand how upsetting being diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy can be. Our team are compassionate and kind, and we’re always happy to answer any of your questions. We support patients through their abortion journeys, even after their termination. If you are having a termination of pregnancy for medical reasons, you are not alone, and you are in the right hands.

As part of our abortion referral services, we offer counselling for those who want it. If you are conflicted about abortion treatment or you need to terminate a pregnancy for your health, then we are here to listen. Navigating your way through early pregnancy and abortion treatment can be overwhelming; you may experience a mix of emotions and this is normal. NUPAS’ abortion services are available to all who are eligible for NHS treatment.

Read more here about terminating for medical reasons.

FAQs on Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment

When does ectopic pregnancy pain start?

Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy usually occur around 6-8 weeks after your last period. Symptoms can vary from person to person.

Some people have no symptoms.

Will the pregnancy test be positive with an ectopic pregnancy?

A pregnancy test detects the HCG hormone level, which is present when pregnant. The further on in pregnancy you are, the higher these hormone levels become. Even if your pregnancy is outside of the womb, these hormones will be detected with an at-home pregnancy test.

Does your belly grow with an ectopic pregnancy?

No, as the foetus is out of place, it can’t utilise the womb’s space to grow naturally. An ectopic pregnancy, however, should be caught sooner, before a pregnancy bump develops. Therefore, a pregnant person wouldn’t achieve this stage of ‘showing’ due to needing a medically induced termination.

Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment: Contact NUPAS for Abortion for Medical Reasons

Contact NUPAS if you want to know your options with an unplanned pregnancy. If you are experiencing any symptoms, then reach out to our team or call 111. You should call 999 in emergency situations.

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