Ectopic pregnancy
A pregnancy that implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube, and cannot continue safely.
In plain English
It's when the embryo implants somewhere other than the womb, usually a tube, and it needs medical treatment because it can't develop safely there.
Why it matters
It can happen after IVF even though the embryo is placed directly in the uterus, so any positive test needs an early scan to check its location.
Related terms
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Written by patients, not clinicians. This page has not yet been reviewed by a named fertility professional, so it explains published guidance and points you to the original source instead of giving medical advice. It is not medical advice. Decisions about your treatment belong with your own clinic. Read our editorial policy and corrections policy.