Are Severe Stomach Cramps, Nausea And Normal Bleeding Signs Of Ectopic Pregnancy?

Posted on Wed, 10 Aug 2016

Question: I have really bad cramps while on birth control. I am unable to walk and have had extremely bad nausea. I have not had a fever. I have been on birth control for 2 years. My period began today as expected (I am on my fourth sugar pill), and my cramping began today. I am bleeding a normal amount. I did have several drinks last night, and this might be apart of the problem. I am worried about having an ectopic pregnancy, my mother had one. Should I be concerned and what should I do?

Answered by Dr. Ramadevi Wani (45 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Pregnancy is unlikely.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome to Healthcare Magic.
I am Dr Ramadevi Wani. I will be answering your concerns.
Birth control pills if taken correctly are more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. So I do not think that the cramps are due to pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy does not run in families. So do not worry about it.
Cramps and nausea could be due to indigestion, food poisoning etc.
To relax your mind just get a pregnancy test done ( I am sure it will be negative.

If the pain and nausea are worsening, go to the ER and consult Doctor. Otherwise just take a tablet of Brufen and observe. The cramps should reduce in a hour or two.
I hope this is helpful.
If you have further concerns, I will be happy to answer.
Best wishes,
Dr Rama

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Priyanka G Raj

Follow up: Dr. Ramadevi Wani (1 hour later)

I now have a low grade fever of 99.3 degrees (Fahrenheit). I have been taking pain relievers and it does not help. I have taken a pregnancy test and it is negative. My boyfriend and I have been eating the same food, so I do not believe it is food poisoning. I have taken Pepto-Bismol (bismuth) and it does not help. Does this sound serious enough to visit the ER now, or can I wait until morning to visit an urgent care doctor who will be significantly cheaper?

Answered by Dr. Ramadevi Wani (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You must go to the ER now.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome back.

If the pain is worsening, you must go to the ER now. It can still be due to the food you ate. It could be some other cause like appendicitis, ruptured ovarian cyst.

If the pain is reducing and you are feeling better, you can visit the doctor tomorrow.

Best wishes,
Dr Rama

Note: Revert back with your gynae reports to get a clear medical analysis by our expert Gynecologic Oncologist. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng