Pregnant..

I had an ectopic pregnancy and tube removal back in September 2015 and then I had a little boy in 2017. I have just found out I’m pregnant… I’m guessing about 4 weeks… I’m just wondering how early they can scan to check baby is in right place? I’m sure when I was pregnant with my son they scanned me at 5 weeks to check if in right place and then again at 6+ weeks to check heart beat but maybe I’m wrong. I am freaking out a bit! I have had some twinges here or there and it kind of very light period cramps at times… not sure if just very sensitive in that area because I’m worried…

5 weeks but that could be to early to see anything which could cause fear of another ectopic. 6 weeks is best if u are symptom free.

Dear Jen2016,

Whispered congratulations on your pregnancy,

After an ectopic pregnancy, finding we are pregnant again can be a mix of emotions and I can completely understand your feeling nervous. It is perfectly normal to feel scared after the ordeal you have endured. I also felt twinges and aches after my ectopic pregnancy, particularly when I next felt pregnant. My mind started racing and I was only really able to relax to some degree after my early scan. It is a nerve-wracking time and you have friends here who understands how you are feeling.

Speaking from UK medical practice and standards, usually doctors carry out an internal transvaginal scan at around six weeks with subsequent pregnancies after an ectopic. This is because there is a reasonable chance of seeing an embryo around this six week mark.

We advise contacting your local EPU, reminding them of your ectopic pregnancy and booking an appointment. If you are unable to self refer, contact your GP who will be able to do this for you.

Whilst I do not wish to alarm you, I sadly have to remind you that if you experience any unusual bleeding, abdominal pain, shoulder tip pain, bladder or bowel problems or feel dizzy and unwell to seek urgent medical advice.

Sending much love and positive thoughts,

Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811


If we have been able to help you, are you able to help us with a small donation or by volunteering?

Further information is available at ectopic.org.uk

Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk

We provide a call-back helpline service: 020 7733 2653

The latest EPT newsletter is out now! You can take a look at the Winter edition and subscribe to our mailing list here: https://mailchi.mp/986bdd6091ee/ectopic-matters

Detailed medical information can be found on our website. Please remember online medical information is NO SUBSTITUTE for expert medical advice from your own health care team


Thank you for your advice and kind words… I had an early scan today 5+3 weeks and saw a sac and yolk sac but too early to see a heart beat but the nurse said it isn’t an ectopic so I have some peace of mind… they will rescan me in two weeks so fingers crossed all is well… xx

Dear Jen2016,

That is good news, thank you for keeping us updated. I continue to send positive thoughts for your scan in 2weeks,

Much love,

Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811


If we have been able to help you, are you able to help us with a small donation or by volunteering?

Further information is available at ectopic.org.uk

Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk

We provide a call-back helpline service: 020 7733 2653

The latest EPT newsletter is out now! You can take a look at the Winter edition and subscribe to our mailing list here: https://mailchi.mp/986bdd6091ee/ectopic-matters

Detailed medical information can be found on our website. Please remember online medical information is NO SUBSTITUTE for expert medical advice from your own health care team