Last Updated on February 18, 2025 by tanya

FAQs on Ectopic Pregnancy

 

Failure To Diagnose And Claiming Medical Negligence

 

Failure to identify and treat an ectopic pregnancy can be devastating and here are some common FAQs on ectopic pregnancy. If medical professionals failed to diagnose your ectopic pregnancy which resulted in harm, you may be able to claim for compensation.

If you believe you have a case, First Personal Injury may be able to assist you with a medical negligence claim. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

 

What is an ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. This condition is life-threatening if not diagnosed early and treated rapidly.

 

What are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?

Symptoms can include abdominal pain, often on one side, vaginal bleeding, shoulder pain, dizziness, and weakness. Severe cases may lead to rupture which can cause intense pain and internal bleeding.

 

How is an ectopic pregnancy diagnosed?

It is diagnosed using blood tests (HCG levels) and transvaginal ultrasound. If HCG levels rise abnormally and no pregnancy is visible in the uterus, an ectopic pregnancy is suspected.

 

Can an ectopic pregnancy be missed?

Yes, it can be missed, especially in the early stages when symptoms mimic a normal pregnancy or miscarriage. Misinterpretation of ultrasound findings or slow-rising HCG levels can delay diagnosis.

 

Why might an ultrasound fail to detect an ectopic pregnancy?

If the pregnancy is too small or implanted in an unusual location such as the ovary, cervix, or abdomen, it may not be visible on early scans. Additionally, inexperienced interpretation can lead to misdiagnosis.

 

What conditions can mimic an ectopic pregnancy?

Miscarriages, ovarian cysts, pelvic infections, and gastrointestinal issues like appendicitis can present with similar symptoms.

 

What happens if an ectopic pregnancy is missed?

If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can rupture, causing severe internal bleeding, shock and may potentially be fatal. Emergency surgery may be required to remove the pregnancy and control bleeding.

 

What should I do if I suspect I may have an ectopic pregnancy?

Anyone experiencing severe abdominal pain, dizziness, or unusual bleeding during early pregnancy should seek immediate medical attention. Early detection and treatment can prevent life-threatening complications.

 

Can I make a clinical negligence claim if my ectopic pregnancy was missed?

Yes, if medical professionals failed to diagnose your ectopic pregnancy and it resulted in harm or injury, you may have grounds for a claim. It would need to be shown that the medical provider’s failure to diagnose the condition fell below the standard of care expected.

 

What do I need to prove for a missed ectopic pregnancy?

 

To succeed in a clinical negligence claim, you must prove:

 

• There was a breach of duty by the medical provider, such as  failure to diagnose or misinterpretation of test results.
• The breach directly caused harm or injury, such as a ruptured ectopic pregnancy resulting in severe internal bleeding).
• You suffered actual damages, such as medical bills, pain, emotional distress, or lost income.

 

Next Steps To Claim Compensation

 

In most cases, you must file a claim within 3 years from the date of the incident or from when you became aware of the injury. However, there may be exceptions, such as if the patient is a minor. It’s essential to consult a solicitor as soon as possible to ensure your claim is timely.

At First Personal Injury, we specialise in supporting individuals with clinical negligence claims. We work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

To start the claims process, contact us today by calling 0333 358 2345 or contact us online for a confidential discussion about your potential claim.