How can you tell the difference between an ectopic pregnancy and a miscarriage?

How do you know if it’s a miscarriage or ectopic?

The symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain and absence of menstruation. However, some people experience symptoms that are similar to those found in gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, and miscarriage.

How soon would you know if you had an ectopic pregnancy?

Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy usually develop between the 4th and 12th weeks of pregnancy. Some women don’t have any symptoms at first. They may not find out they have an ectopic pregnancy until an early scan shows the problem or they develop more serious symptoms later on.

How can you detect an ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy is usually diagnosed by carrying out a transvaginal ultrasound scan. This involves inserting a small probe into your vagina. The probe is so small that it’s easy to insert and you won’t need a local anaesthetic.

What signs and symptoms are most expected with an ectopic pregnancy?

Ectopic Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms
  • Light vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain.
  • Upset stomach and vomiting.
  • Sharp abdominal cramps.
  • Pain on one side of your body.
  • Dizziness or weakness.
  • Pain in your shoulder, neck, or rectum.

How can you rule out an ectopic pregnancy?

To find out if you have an ectopic pregnancy, your doctor will likely do: A pelvic exam to check the size of your uterus and feel for growths or tenderness in your belly. A blood test that checks the level of the pregnancy hormone (hCG). This test is repeated 2 days later.

Where would it hurt if you had an ectopic pregnancy?

Often, the first warning signs of an ectopic pregnancy are pain or vaginal bleeding. There might be pain in the pelvis, abdomen, or even the shoulder or neck (if blood from a ruptured ectopic pregnancy builds up and irritates certain nerves). The pain can range from mild and dull to severe and sharp.

Does an ectopic pregnancy show on a test?

Would an Ectopic Pregnancy Show Up on a Home Pregnancy Test? Since ectopic pregnancies still produce the hormone hCG, they’ll register as a positive home pregnancy test. Women with ectopic pregnancies will also experience early pregnancy symptoms like sore breasts, nausea, spotting, and more.