IF the fetus is growing in the wrong place, usually in one of the fallopian tubes is called an ectopic pregnancy. , it may cause the fallopian tube to stretch, bleed or rupture As the fetus gets bigger. T massive bleeding and infertility, can be caused by this and can be life-threatening. These problems typically occur when the pregnancy is 6 to 7 weeks along, but can occur anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks.

Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms as your life may be in danger and you may need an urgent operation:

• vaginal bleeding and cramping pain shortly after a late period;

• gradual bleeding causing pain and/or pressure in the lower abdomen;

• sudden, severe pain in the lower abdomen;

• bad pains that do not feel like period pains;

• dark bleeding which starts after the pain; or

• faintness, nausea, dizziness and vomiting.

What should I do if I think I am miscarrying?

• Ring your doctor or local hospital and describe your symptoms. Remember, miscarriage cannot be prevented by your doctor.

• Ask your partner, a friend or relative to stay with you, preferably someone with a driver’s licence and car who can take you to the doctor or hospital if necessary.

• Soak up the blood with sanitary pads or towels. Keep a record of how many pads you go through each hour and how heavily stained they are. If you are bleeding very heavily then lie down.

• Pack an overnight bag for hospital, just in case you need it later.

• If you need a D & C, do not eat or drink. If you are going to have an anaesthetic your stomach must be empty . Check this with your doctor.

• Save everything you pass in a bowl or bucket (rather than sitting on the toilet) to be seen by the doctor or tested to see why your miscarriage happened. If there was a small fetus, you can save it for burial. In some cases there is not a fetus or it is simply too small to find.

• If you are alone and things are happening fast, dial 000 and ask for an ambulance. If you are having a miscarriage Never drive yourself to hospital .