OMNI Ultrasound & Gynaecology Care offers rapid access to diagnostic tests for women at every stage of their pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is not a normal developing pregnancy, and does not contain a fetus. The fertilised egg implants outside the womb, usually in the fallopian tube.
Ectopic pregnancy is the leading cause of maternal deaths, often because it is misdiagnosed as a miscarriage or even occasionally appendicitis. Which is due to the similarity in symptoms.
Classic symptoms associated with ectopic pregnancy
There are three symptoms associated with ectopic pregnancy. But you will notice that these three symptoms are quite common. Even if you were presenting all three symptoms together you may notice why ectopic pregnancy is often misdiagnosed as miscarriage.
That is why early pregnancy scans are vital. And visiting your GP or obstetrician when presenting the below symptoms is important. The three classic symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are: absent periods, pelvic pain and +/- vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain
Acute pelvic pain in young women can have a number of possible causes. If you are presenting with acute pelvic pain we would strongly recommend a pregnancy scan. Aside from potentially signifying an ectopic pregnancy acute pelvic pain can also be symptomatic of:
- Ovarian cysts
- Appendicitis
In this situation a scan is helpful because an ultrasound can demonstrate most ectopic pregnancies and can also identify complications of ovarian cysts.
- Amenorrhoea
Amenorrhoea is when a woman has an absence of her menstruation. Generally the most common cause of amenorrhoea is pregnancy, however, ovarian dysfunction and endocrine disorder can also be associated with amenorrhoea.
- Vaginal bleeding
Vaginal bleeding can be with or without clots, spotting only or blood-stained discharge. Irrespective of the amount or type of vaginal bleeding an ultrasound is necessary to determine the viability of the pregnancy, and more importantly the location of the pregnancy.
OMNI provides high quality imaging and care for women who have any degree of vaginal bleeding in the 1st trimester.
While vaginal bleeding is common in early pregnancy, occurring in around 30% of pregnancies unexplained bleeding can be a cause of anxiety. Transvaginal ultrasound or internal ultrasound scan is the best way to find out what is happening.
Ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and your early pregnancy health
The presentation of ectopic pregnancy can vary from minor non-specific symptoms to a woman suddenly collapsing.
Ectopic pregnancy is difficult to diagnose because it does mimic a miscarriage. It is of vital importance that GPs and emergency physicians have a greater awareness of ectopic pregnancy. This can increase the number of women who are referred for an early scan and in turn hopefully decrease maternal morbidity and even mortality.
Same day scanning
At OMNI we are conscious lower abdominal pain or bleeding can often occur without warning. We offer same day reporting and same day return consultation in serious cases to ensure the best diagnostic care for women.
Same day scanning is not only a great way to reassure woman and their partners but also enables immediate and appropriate informed planning for you and your referring GP, obstetrician or gynaecologist.
To find out more about how OMNI Ultrasound & Gynaecology Care in Sydney can help you, or to book an appointment, please contact us today.