If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you might be concerned about an ectopic pregnancy. How do you recognize the warning signs? How is the pain treated? What are your treatment options?

This guide explains the critical symptoms and how to identify ectopic pregnancy pain early. Keep reading to learn more.

 

What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. Unfortunately, any pregnancy that implants outside the uterus cannot develop normally and is not viable.[1]

Ectopic pregnancies are rare. They occur in about 1-2% of pregnancies.[2] However, it’s important to notice the warning signs. Get medical help right away if you think you are having one.

Common Pregnancy Pain vs. Ectopic Pregnancy Pain

Many women experience mild to moderate discomfort during a healthy pregnancy, including[3]:

These pains are usually manageable and can improve with rest or physical therapy. However, ectopic pregnancy pain is different. It often starts as one-sided lower abdominal or pelvic pain and can quickly become severe.[4]

When Does Ectopic Pregnancy Pain Start?

When the pain starts varies from person to person. However, ectopic pregnancy symptoms often appear 6 to 8 weeks after the last normal menstrual period.[5] At first, they can resemble a normal pregnancy[1]:

As the condition progresses, more obvious signs, like pain, appear[1]:

Seek emergency care immediately if you experience[4]:

What Do Ectopic Pregnancies Feel Like?

Ectopic pregnancy pain can vary. It may feel like sharp stabbing, cramping, or persistent aching. Sudden, severe pelvic or abdominal pain combined with bleeding is a medical emergency and may indicate a rupture.[4]

The pain can be intermittent at first and then become constant or suddenly severe. Any intense or worsening pain needs immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early detection is essential. Diagnosis usually involves:

Treatment depends on how far the pregnancy has progressed and the state of your health. Common treatments include[6]:

Important note: Treatment for an ectopic pregnancy is not considered an abortion. It is a necessary medical intervention for a life-threatening condition. The CDC does not consider ectopic pregnancy removal to be abortion.[7] Additionally, there are no abortion laws that prohibit care for ectopic pregnancies.

Can I Get Pregnant Again After an Ectopic Pregnancy?

Yes. Many women have healthy future pregnancies, although the risk of another ectopic pregnancy is slightly higher.[8] Speak to your healthcare provider about the possible causes of your ectopic pregnancy and what risk factors you may have before moving forward. 

Get Answers and Support at Cookeville Pregnancy Clinic

If you are unexpectedly pregnant and concerned about ectopic pregnancy, you’re not alone. Cookeville Pregnancy Clinic offers free pregnancy tests and limited ultrasounds to help determine the location and status of your pregnancy in a caring, confidential setting.

Don’t wait. Call us at (931)526-5525 or schedule your appointment online today.

*Important note: Please be aware that this article is not meant to substitute for medical advice or treatment. The purpose of our limited ultrasound exams is to identify a pregnancy inside the uterus, detect the fetal heartbeat, and estimate how far along you are. If there is no detectable heartbeat, it may indicate an ectopic pregnancy is occurring. If we cannot detect a fetal heartbeat during your appointment, we will provide appropriate referrals for follow-up care and treatment.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Pregnancy Test be Positive with an Ectopic Pregnancy?

Yes, an ectopic pregnancy will cause a positive pregnancy test.[4] However, it’s important to receive an ultrasound to determine the location of the pregnancy.

Does Your Belly Grow with an Ectopic Pregnancy?

No, your belly does not noticeably grow with an ectopic pregnancy. Because the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, there is not enough space for the embryo to grow into a “bump”. 

Only a viable pregnancy inside the uterus will cause your belly to grow.

Can an Ectopic Pregnancy Survive? 

Unfortunately, an ectopic pregnancy cannot survive. The egg must implant in your uterus to grow properly. If it implants somewhere else, doctors must remove the pregnancy immediately to prevent a rupture.

Sources

  1. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, January 18). Ectopic Pregnancy - Symptoms & Causes. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9687-ectopic-pregnancy#symptoms-and-causes
  2. National Library of Medicine. (2025, March 27). Ectopic Pregnancy. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539860/ 
  3. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, September 28). Pregnancy Pains & Discomfort: Types & Relief. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/pregnancy-pains 
  4. Mayo Clinic. (2022, March 12). Ectopic Pregnancy - Symptoms & Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088
  5. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2026). Ectopic Pregnancy. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/ectopic-pregnancy 
  6. Mayo Clinic. (2022, March 12). Ectopic Pregnancy - Diagnosis & Treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372093 
  7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, November 27). CDC’s Abortion Surveillance System FAQS. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductive-health/data-statistics/abortion-surveillance-system.html
  8. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, January 18). Ectopic Pregnancy - Management & Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9687-ectopic-pregnancy#management-and-treatment