Gynaecology in Lagos
Ectopic Pregnancy
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a gynaecology specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Ectopic Pregnancy
- A missed period or a positive pregnancy test
- Pain low in the tummy, often on one side
- Vaginal bleeding or a brown, watery discharge
- Pain in the tip of the shoulder
- Discomfort when passing urine or stool
An ectopic pregnancy is one that implants outside the womb, almost always in one of the fallopian tubes. It cannot grow into a baby, and as it grows it can burst the tube and cause dangerous bleeding inside the tummy. Symptoms usually start between about four and twelve weeks of pregnancy, and some women have none until the tube bursts. Things that raise the risk include past pelvic infection, including sexually transmitted infections, previous tube surgery or sterilisation, a previous ectopic, smoking and pregnancy with a coil in place, but many women have no risk factor at all. Found early, it can often be treated with an injection or keyhole surgery. Any woman who could be pregnant and has tummy pain or bleeding should do a pregnancy test.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A missed period or a positive pregnancy test
- Pain low in the tummy, often on one side
- Vaginal bleeding or a brown, watery discharge
- Pain in the tip of the shoulder
- Discomfort when passing urine or stool
- Sudden severe pain, dizziness, fainting or looking very pale, which can mean the tube has burst
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now, to the nearest emergency department, if you could be pregnant and have sudden sharp tummy pain, pain in the tip of your shoulder, feel dizzy or faint, or look very pale. These can mean a burst tube, which needs an operation the same day. Do not wait for a consultation or a call. See a doctor the same day for a positive pregnancy test with any tummy pain or bleeding: a scan and blood tests show where the pregnancy is.
Treatment options
- A vaginal ultrasound scan and pregnancy hormone (hCG) blood tests to find the pregnancy
- Close monitoring with repeat blood tests, for a small ectopic that may settle by itself
- An injection of methotrexate, which stops the pregnancy growing
- Keyhole surgery to remove the pregnancy, usually with the affected tube (salpingectomy)
- Emergency surgery, and sometimes a blood transfusion, for a burst tube
- An early scan in the next pregnancy to confirm it is in the womb
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Can an ectopic pregnancy continue?
No. It cannot be moved into the womb and cannot grow into a baby. Treatment is about keeping you safe and protecting your fertility.
Will I be able to get pregnant again?
Most women can, including with one tube. The chance depends on the health of the other tube and your age. Many women have a healthy pregnancy afterwards.
Is pain and bleeding in early pregnancy always an ectopic?
No. Miscarriage and other causes are more common, but an ectopic must be ruled out with a scan and blood tests, the same day.
Need Help?
Find a verified gynaecology specialist near you.
Gynaecology in Lagos →Gynaecology in Abuja →Gynaecology in Port Harcourt →Gynaecology in Jos →Gynaecology in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Ectopic pregnancy. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 3 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.