Can I become pregnant again after an ectopic pregnancy?

Updated by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team – August 2026.

An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy may be life-threatening and cannot result in a successful pregnancy.

Going through this can be a difficult experience, and you may wonder if you can become pregnant again. Let’s review what an ectopic pregnancy is and what this may mean for your family-building options.

Why does ectopic pregnancy happen?

An ectopic pregnancy happens if a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. This typically occurs if the egg cannot travel through the fallopian tube into the uterus. A fallopian tube may be blocked for many reasons, including:

• Scar tissue from endometriosis or pelvic surgery
• Damage from a sexually transmitted infection
• Conceiving with an IUD in place
• A fallopian tube or uterus that’s shaped differently at birth

Other risk factors for ectopic pregnancy include smoking, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and having an ectopic pregnancy before.

If a fertilized egg cannot travel to the uterus, it may implant in the fallopian tube, or rarely, another spot like the ovary or cervix.

As the fetus grows, the fallopian tube can’t stretch along with it (unlike the uterus, which is designed to grow along with a fetus). And if the fallopian tube bursts, it can cause life-threatening complications.

Ectopic pregnancies are not viable and must be ended for the birthing person’s safety. Depending on the situation, your healthcare provider may use medication or surgery. Pregnancy loss is a heavy experience, and your team can support you as you recover.

Growing your family after an ectopic pregnancy

Be sure to talk with your provider about your wishes for building your family, and what to expect in your individual case.

For many people, it is possible to become pregnant again. And pregnancy may be possible even if you had one fallopian tube removed, because the body can use the other fallopian tube. But an ectopic pregnancy does affect the chances for another healthy pregnancy.

Your provider will let you know how long to wait before trying to become pregnant again. It depends on whether the pregnancy ended with medication or surgery. It’s also important for you to feel ready emotionally, and everyone is different.

Risk of another ectopic pregnancy

People who’ve had an ectopic pregnancy have about a 10% chance of having another one. Take care to go to all your prenatal visits, including early in the pregnancy, to monitor your health.

It’s also helpful to review the signs of a possible ectopic pregnancy. You may not feel anything (other than typical pregnancy symptoms), but some people may have:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Pain in the lower belly or lower back

Signs of an emergency (a rupture) include:

• Intense pain in lower belly
• Shoulder pain
• Pain when you pee or have a bowel movement (poop)
• Upset stomach or diarrhea
• Dizziness or weakness
• Fainting or passing out

If you feel any of these, call 911 or get emergency help right away.

Exploring fertility treatment

Some people may have trouble conceiving after an ectopic pregnancy. Fertility may be affected by many factors including:

• Your age
• Your partner’s sperm
• The health of your fallopian tubes

For people who have trouble becoming pregnant after an ectopic pregnancy, IVF may be an option. IVF uses medicine to help the ovaries grow more eggs. The eggs are removed and combined with sperm in a lab, and the resulting embryo is placed into the uterus.

A fertility specialist can help walk you through fertility testing and treatment options. Together, you can think through your unique situation.

Finding support

Ectopic pregnancy is difficult and raises special considerations for becoming pregnant again. Your provider can help answer questions about your health, emotional recovery, and plans for the future.

Your Progyny Care Advocate is also here to provide support and education as you navigate your family-building journey.

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.

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