Health

An ectopic pregnancy

occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in one of the fallopian tubes. It usually causes symptoms at about six or seven weeks after fertilization, but symptoms may occur as early as four weeks, before you even know you're pregnant.

If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can rupture and be life threatening. Call your practitioner immediately if you have any of the following symptoms: abdominal or pelvic pain or tenderness, vaginal spotting or bleeding (can be red or brown, copious or scant, continuous or intermittent), pain that gets worse during physical activity or while moving your bowels or coughing, or pain in the tip of your shoulder.