If you suspect that you may have an ectopic pregnancy, it is important to seek medical attention right away. A diagnosis of an ectopic pregnancy can usually be made with a combination of a physical examination, a pregnancy test, and an ultrasound.
During the physical examination, your doctor will evaluate your abdomen and pelvis for signs and symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy. These can include abdominal pain and tenderness, vaginal bleeding, and a decrease in the size of the uterus. Your doctor may also order a pregnancy test to check for elevated levels of the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
An ultrasound can help to confirm a diagnosis of an ectopic pregnancy. Using sound waves, the ultrasound can show if a fetus is developing in the uterus or in one of the fallopian tubes. If the ultrasound reveals that a fetus is in the fallopian tube, then a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy can be made.
Depending on the size and stage of the ectopic pregnancy, it may be possible to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy within a few days of the onset of symptoms. However, if the ectopic pregnancy is not advanced, the diagnosis may take longer. The earlier the ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin.