Information Sheet

Unconfirmed Intrauterine Pregnancy (in-clinic)

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Your ultrasound today has not shown a definite pregnancy inside the uterus (womb), even though your pregnancy test is positive.

There are a few possible reasons for this:

• The pregnancy may be very early, maybe earlier than you thought. This is the most common reason.
• You may have had, or may be having, a miscarriage. This can cause cramping and/or bleeding.
• The pregnancy may be growing outside the uterus (for example, in a fallopian tube). This is called an ectopic pregnancy. It is uncommon (about 1 in 100 pregnancies), but it can be very serious.

Pregnancy of Unknown Location

If the ultrasound cannot see a pregnancy, but your pregnancy test is positive, this is called a pregnancy of unknown location.
This means we cannot yet tell where the pregnancy is. More tests are needed before your abortion can safely go ahead.

You will need:

• One blood test today
• A second blood test 2 to 3 days later

These blood tests measure your pregnancy hormone (hCG). They help us see whether the hormone level is going up or down.

Depending on your blood test results and any symptoms you have, you may also need another ultrasound at an imaging service. This may include an internal (vaginal) ultrasound, where a small probe is gently placed inside the vagina to get a clearer picture.

It is very important that you complete all requested tests. This helps avoid delays and keeps you safe.

Likely Very Early pregnancy

Sometimes the ultrasound shows signs of a very early pregnancy in the uterus but does not show enough detail to be certain. This is called a likely very early pregnancy (but not yet confirmed).

In some situations, you may still be able to go ahead with an abortion. Your doctor will discuss the safest option for you.
If you and your doctor decide to proceed with a medical abortion, you will need:

• One blood test as close as possible before taking Step 1
• A second blood test 4 to 5 days after taking Step 1

These follow-up blood tests are very important to make sure the treatment has worked.

If you and your doctor decide to proceed with a surgical abortion, you will need:

• One blood test on the day of your procedure
• A second blood test 2 to 3 days after your procedure

If you proceed with a surgical abortion, there is a higher chance it may not work because the pregnancy is very early. If this happens, the procedure may need to be repeated.

At this early stage, we cannot completely rule out an ectopic pregnancy. This is why the follow-up blood tests are so important.

You may also choose to wait and do blood tests and/or another ultrasound before your abortion to better understand what is happening before starting treatment.

In some cases, a pregnancy may end by itself and you may not need any further treatment.

If you and your doctor decide to delay your abortion, you will need:

• One blood test today
• A second blood test 2 to 3 days later

Your doctor or nurse will contact you as soon as your results are ready. If we cannot reach you and are concerned about your wellbeing, we may contact your nominated emergency contact.

If you have not heard from us within 2 business days after your second blood test, please contact us on 1300 888 022 or call ______________.

Important: Signs of Ectopic Pregnancy

Until we know exactly what is happening with your pregnancy, we cannot completely rule out an ectopic pregnancy.

Go to the nearest Emergency Department straight away if you have:

• Strong or severe pain in your lower abdomen (especially on one side)
• Shoulder pain
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Feeling faint or weak

If you have any concerns, please call our free aftercare line on 1300 888 022

This page last edited: March 2026

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