Ectopic Pregnancy Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

Missed menstrual period
Abdominal pain
Spotty vaginal bleeding
Pain in the shoulder
Fainting

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.

Tests may include:

Urine pregnancy test—to verify pregnancy
Pelvic exam—to check for tenderness and size of the uterus
Blood tests—to measure the amount of a pregnancy hormone (quantitative beta-HCG); the level can help determine if the pregnancy is healthy or ectopic, especially if repeated 48 hours later
Culdocentesis—a needle inserted through the vagina and behind the uterus to check for any blood gathering there
Ultrasound —to check the uterus and fallopian tubes for the presence or absence of a pregnancy; this result is coordinated with the blood test (quantitative betaHCG).
Laparoscopy —a lighted, thin telescope is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to look for an ectopic pregnancy

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.