Ectopic Pregnancy Awareness Day: Supporting Families Through Hidden Loss
July 31st marks Ectopic Pregnancy Awareness Day. It’s a time to shine a light on a medical emergency that affects 1 in 50 pregnancies but is often misunderstood and overlooked. As doulas, we hold space for the full spectrum of pregnancy experiences, including those that don't go as planned. Raising awareness of ectopic pregnancy is not just about clinical information, it's also about advocacy, empathy, and emotional care.
What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. Unfortunately, this type of pregnancy is not viable and can become life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Common early signs include:
Sharp abdominal pain or pelvic cramping, often on one side
Shoulder pain (a sign of internal bleeding)
Vaginal spotting or bleeding
Dizziness or fainting
Anyone experiencing these symptoms in early pregnancy should seek immediate medical attention.
Why Early Awareness Matters
Early detection of ectopic pregnancy can save lives. The challenge is that symptoms often mimic normal early pregnancy or miscarriage. That’s why raising awareness is vital, not just among healthcare providers, but within our communities.
As doulas, we advocate for clients to trust their instincts and seek help if something feels off.
The Emotional Impact of Ectopic Pregnancy
Beyond the physical toll, an ectopic pregnancy is often a deep emotional loss. Parents may grieve the baby they were expecting, feel shocked by the emergency nature of the experience, or struggle with guilt or confusion.
As doulas, we offer:
Nonjudgmental emotional support
Resources for healing and counseling
Validation that all pregnancy losses are real losses
Guidance through future fertility concerns or decisions
Pregnancy loss, in any form, deserves acknowledgment and care.
We remind our clients: You are not alone. Your grief is real. Your story matters.
are here for every step of the journey — from joyful beginnings to complicated moments of grief. If you or someone you love has experienced an ectopic pregnancy, we offer trauma-informed, heart-centered support.
Contact me today to talk, share, or simply be held in compassion.
Where to Find Support After an Ectopic Pregnancy
If you or someone you love has experienced an ectopic pregnancy, there are compassionate organizations offering both information and emotional support:
