Diagnosis of Ectopic Pregnancy

Before diagnosis for ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy test to check urine likely to be given first. If the test gives the positive result and confirm the pregnancy, a measurable hCG test probably will be given to calculate levels of the human hormone.

A human hormone appears for several days after conception in the urine and blood which is produced by the placenta. Every 2 day, the levels will double in the early month of pregnancy. If the result of hCG levels differs than estimated for stage of pregnancy, it might be an ectopic pregnancy.

Ultrasound examination also can be used to show a growing fetus in the uterus. However, the ultrasound not good enough to discover every ectopic pregnancy. Pelvic exam also can be used to locate the pain areas, enlarged checking, pregnant uterus or finding masses in the abdominal area.

It is difficult to examine an ectopic pregnancy less than 5 weeks after the last menstrual period. A doctor could ask to consult him every 2 or 3 days if ectopic pregnancy still can't be diagnosed to measure the hCG levels. The doctor will continue to monitor carefully if hCG levels still don't rise as it is until an ultrasound can show where the pregnancy is.