Pregnancy is a life-changing experience, but complications can arise that require immediate medical attention. One such complication is an ectopic pregnancy, a condition that affects approximately 1 in 50 pregnancies. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help women seek timely medical care and prevent life-threatening complications. What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy? An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. However, implantation can also occur in the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix. Because these locations are not designed to support a growing embryo, an ectopic pregnancy cannot proceed normally and requires medical intervention. Causes and Risk Factors While ectopic pregnancies can happen to anyone, certain factors increase the risk: Previous ectopic pregnancy – A history of ectopic pregnancy increases the likelihood of recurrence. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – Infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause scarring in the fallopian tubes. Tubal surgery – Previous surgeries on the fallopian tubes can lead to blockages or scarring. Endometriosis – This condition can cause tissue growth that affects the movement of the fertilized egg. Use of fertility treatments – Assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), can slightly increase the risk. Smoking – Studies suggest that smoking may interfere with the function of the fallopian tubes. Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy Ectopic pregnancies often present symptoms similar to those of a normal pregnancy, making early detection challenging. Common symptoms include: Abdominal or pelvic pain – Often sharp and concentrated on one side Vaginal bleeding – Light spotting or heavier bleeding unrelated to menstruation Shoulder pain – A sign of internal bleeding that irritates the diaphragm Dizziness or fainting – May indicate blood loss and shock in severe cases If you experience any of these symptoms, especially with a positive pregnancy test, seek medical attention immediately. Diagnosis and Treatment Doctors diagnose ectopic pregnancy through blood tests to measure hCG (pregnancy hormone) levels and ultrasounds to locate the pregnancy. If an ectopic pregnancy is confirmed, treatment options include: Medication (Methotrexate): If detected early, doctors may prescribe methotrexate to stop the embryo from growing and allow the body to absorb the tissue naturally. Surgery: If the pregnancy is advanced or causing internal bleeding, laparoscopic surgery may be required to remove the ectopic tissue and, in some cases, the affected fallopian tube. Emotional and Physical Recovery Recovering from an ectopic pregnancy can be both physically and emotionally challenging. While the physical recovery time varies, many women experience grief and loss. Seeking support from loved ones, counseling, or support groups can be helpful. Can You Get Pregnant Again? Having an ectopic pregnancy does not mean you cannot conceive in the future. Many women go on to have healthy pregnancies, though the risk of another ectopic pregnancy is higher. Consulting a doctor before trying to conceive again can help assess risks and plan for a healthy pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is a serious but treatable condition. Awareness of the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options can help ensure early detection and appropriate medical care. If you suspect you may have an ectopic pregnancy, seeking prompt medical attention could be life-saving.

Making a pregnancy decision is deeply personal and can feel overwhelming. If you’re considering the abortion pill, it’s essential to be fully informed about the process, risks, and alternatives. At ACPC Women's Clinic, we’re here to provide clarity, support, and non-judgmental guidance. Before taking the abortion pill, here are five key things to consider: 1. Confirm Your Pregnancy Before making any decisions, it’s crucial to confirm that you are indeed pregnant. A medical-grade pregnancy test and an ultrasound can determine how far along you are, which affects your options. The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, so knowing your gestational age is vital. Additionally, an ultrasound can help detect an ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention and cannot be treated with the abortion pill. Our clinic offers free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds to provide accurate information and ensure your safety. 2. Understand the Process and Risks The abortion pill, also known as medication abortion, involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol . Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone necessary for maintaining pregnancy, while misoprostol induces uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy. While the process is typically completed at home, it can be accompanied by significant cramping, heavy bleeding, nausea, fever, and other side effects. It’s important to be aware of potential risks, including incomplete abortion, which may require surgical intervention, severe bleeding, or infection. Additionally, some women experience emotional and psychological effects after an abortion. Speaking with a healthcare provider about these risks can help you make a well-informed decision. 3. Know Your Legal Rights and Protections Laws regarding abortion vary by state, and Colorado has specific regulations surrounding abortion access. Unlike some states, Colorado does not have a waiting period or parental consent requirement for minors, meaning women can obtain an abortion without mandatory delays. However, it’s essential to be aware of your rights and any potential legal implications of obtaining abortion pills online or across state lines. Some sources selling abortion pills online may not provide FDA-approved medications, increasing the risk of complications. 4. Explore All Your Options You deserve to know all of your options before making a final decision. We recommend utilizing our Health & Safety Informed Decision Checklist which answers frequently asked questions about abortion. Beyond abortion, adoption and parenting are also possibilities . While it may seem overwhelming, many resources exist to support women facing unintended pregnancies. Parenting support services, financial assistance programs, and adoption mentoring are available to help women make a decision that aligns with their values and long-term goals. Speaking with a trained advocate can help you explore what’s best for your unique situation without pressure or judgment. ACPC Women's Clinic provides confidential mentoring, educational resources, and referrals to services that can support you. 5. Seek Emotional and Medical Support An unintended pregnancy can bring emotional and physical challenges. Having a strong support system—whether it’s a counselor, trusted friend, or medical professional—can make a difference in coping with the emotional impact of your decision. Some women report experiencing feelings of relief after an abortion, while others struggle with emotions such as sadness, guilt, or regret. Seeking post-abortion counseling and emotional support can help process these feelings and ensure mental well-being. Our clinic provides confidential consultations and resources to help you make an informed decision and receive the care you need. No matter what decision you are facing, you are not alone. ACPC Women's Clinic is here to offer compassionate care and a safe space to discuss your options. Whether you need medical information, emotional support, or practical assistance, we are here to walk alongside you. If you have questions or need support, reach out to us today. Your health and well-being matter, and we are here to help you navigate this journey with clarity and confidence.