Ectopic pregnancy, also known as
eccyesis or
tubal pregnancy, is a
complication of pregnancy in which the embryo attaches outside the
uterus. Signs and symptoms classically include
abdominal pain and
vaginal bleeding. Less than 50 percent of women, however, have both these symptoms. The pain may be described as sharp, dull, or crampy. Pain may also spread to the shoulder if bleeding into the abdomen has occurred. Severe bleeding may result in a
fast heart rate,
fainting, or
shock. With very rare exceptions the
fetus is unable to survive.