What are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?
Disease description:
Recently became pregnant and have been feeling some physical discomfort lately, worried it might be an ectopic pregnancy. Could you please tell me what are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Ectopic pregnancy, also known as extrauterine pregnancy, refers to the implantation and development of a fertilized egg outside the uterine cavity. Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include:
1. Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation): Most patients have a brief history of amenorrhea, usually around six weeks. However, some patients may mistake pathological bleeding for menstrual bleeding and thus overlook the history of amenorrhea.
2. Vaginal bleeding: After embryonic death, irregular vaginal bleeding occurs. The blood is usually dark in color, less in amount than a normal menstrual period, and may be intermittent or continuous.
3. Abdominal pain: This symptom has a high incidence rate. It often presents as sudden, unilateral lower abdominal tearing or cramping pain. It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a sensation of rectal pressure or defecation when pelvic fluid accumulation is present.
4. Syncope (fainting) and shock: Due to acute intra-abdominal bleeding and severe pain, patients may exhibit pallor, cold clammy extremities, weak pulse, and decreased blood pressure. In severe cases, the patient may go into shock.
If you suspect you may have an ectopic pregnancy, seek medical attention immediately. Diagnosis can be confirmed through ultrasound examination and blood HCG testing. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent serious complications.
