An ectopic pregnancy is when the pregnancy develops outside the uterus. 99% of pregnancies are normally located in the uterus; however ectopic pregnancies can affect any woman. Initial ectopic pregnancy symptoms are pain (requiring more than a mild painkiller like paracetamol to relieve) and bleeding. If the ectopic pregnancy is rupturing you can experience a generalised tummy pain which is often associated with referred shoulder pain. Other reported symptoms include pain on going to passing urine or opening your bowels and pain when walking. If you experience these symptoms you should seek immediate medical attention.
[If you have had a previous ectopic pregnancy the National Institute of Clinical Excellence has advised that you may self refer to an Early Pregnancy Clinic where you can obtain expert advice and scanning]
All ectopic pregnancies will give a positive pregnancy test result. You need an ultrasound scan to confirm the location of the pregnancy.