Which symptom is commonly associated with ectopic pregnancy?

Sharp abdominal pain is a common symptom associated with ectopic pregnancy because it typically occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. As the pregnancy grows, the tube can become stretched and eventually rupture, leading to acute abdominal pain. This pain is usually unilateral, meaning it often occurs on one side, and can be severe in intensity.

In addition to sharp abdominal pain, ectopic pregnancies may present other symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or spotting and shoulder pain, but the sudden and intense nature of the abdominal pain is a hallmark sign that prompts further investigation. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for timely diagnosis and management, as an untreated ectopic pregnancy can lead to serious complications due to internal bleeding.

The other symptoms listed, while they can occur in various medical conditions, are not typically considered hallmark signs of ectopic pregnancy.