Pregnancy of unknown location (PUL)

Pregnancy of unknown location describes a situation where a blood or urine test confirms pregnancy, but an ultrasound scan does not yet show a pregnancy inside or outside the uterus. This can happen because the pregnancy is too early to be seen on scan, or because it is an ectopic pregnancy that has not yet become visible. Your clinic will usually monitor this closely with repeat beta-hCG blood tests over a few days to see whether levels are rising as expected, and may repeat the scan. Because pregnancy of unknown location can occasionally turn out to be an ectopic pregnancy, contact your fertility clinic promptly, or attend the nearest hospital emergency department, if you develop worsening abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness or heavy bleeding while this is being investigated.

Also known as: PUL, unknown location pregnancy

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.