QuestionHi. I am a 31 year old mother of 2. My husband and I really were not wanting more kids simply because of the state of the economy and the world in general now. I had an IUD (not mirena, no hormones)for 7 1/2 years and had it removed last Aug due to years of severe cramps and extremely heavy periods. My periods are very regular and I have a 28 day cycle. The first day of my last period was 2/22/09. We are usually very careful using either condoms or spermacides. Unfortunately, we had a little accident on 3/8/09. I took Plan B "morning after pill" on 3/9/09. I missed my period and have 4 positive pregnancy test. By my calculation I am 5 wks 3 days today. I'm very concerned about an ectopic pregnancy as I have read that the morning after pill can increase your risk 10 fold.
Here in lies my problem. I called my gyno last Thursday, spoke with the nurse, explained my situation, and asked if I should go to the ER. she blew me off like I was crazy and told me to just come to my appt on Tues. I showed up for my appt on Tues and after 2 hours in the waiting room they told me that they no longer accept my insurance. I can't find a doctor that takes it.
I'm scared and don't know if I should go to the ER or not. I know that this doesn't feel like the first two pregos. I am having pain in my left side similar to bad ovulation pain, with occasional stabbing like pain, and also cramping across my entire abdomen. I don't know if it is "severe" because I have a pretty high pain tolerance. I had both of my babies natural and have dealt with severe periods for years so what may be severe to some may be normal to me. I have been having terrible back pain near my sacroiliac joint. It was on the Left side and now it is radiating to the right and down both legs. It seems to hurt worse as the day progresses. Also, I can't stand for my pants or even panties to touch my stomach. It's very uncomfortable and there not tight. My lower left abdomen does not seem to hurt worse if I press on it but my mid abdomen behind my belly button does hurt when I press it. I have not had any blood. I feel like I'm full up to my breast even if I just eat a little. I feel so full I am short of breath. I'm 5ft all & usually weight around 125 but I already look 4 mos prego since I'm so bloated.
Since the nurse at my gyno acted like I was stupid for worrying, I really don't want to go to the ER and wait 4 hours for them to tell me I'm silly or paranoid. Please just tell me if I'm being crazy or what you think.
I'm so sorry that I have wrote a book but I was so relieved to find your help. Thank you so much in advance.
AnswerDear Amber,
Given your circumstances, I would not think that a visit to the ER (where they SHOULD take your insurance as payment) to have them assess the pain on the left side since you are pregnant is unreasonable at all.
I can also give you some additional information on ectopic pregnancy symptoms:
Ectopic pregnancies are diagnosed by your doctor, who will probably first perform a pelvic exam to locate pain, tenderness or a mass in the abdomen and usually will also use an ultrasound to determine whether the uterus contains a developing fetus. The hCG level is also important. An hCG level that is lower than what would be expected is one reason to suspect an ectopic pregnancy. Low levels of progesterone may also indicate that a pregnancy is abnormal.
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy would include:
- Vaginal bleeding, heavier or lighter than your normal period
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
- Sharp or stabbing pain that may come and go and vary in intensity. The pain may be in the pelvis, abdomen or even the shoulder and neck (due to blood from a ruptured ectopic pregnancy gathering up under the diaphragm). This should be reported to your doctor right away.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well and good luck in finding a doctor. I would suspect your insurance company would be the best resource in finding a doctor who accepts them in your area.
Brenda
