So after a relationship breakdown, six years on after ectopic and I’m settled with my DD and new partner. I’m ready for a baby but just so scared.
I’ll never forget going to Early Pregnancy Unit after taking my positive test and being over the moon, to find out the doctor said my pregnancy was non viable. I was in shock, I couldn’t think what it meant, or perhaps didn’t want to. I couldn’t stop crying…
Went to hospital every other day for bloods for a couple weeks to be checked and the hcg levels were going down but due to bleeding and pain I got rushed to theater. Luckily, my tube did not have to be removed they checked and left everything as it was. So the operation seemed at the time pointless like id put myself through it… Was so confused. Still, while recovering from the operation my hcg levels were still being lower so it was just a waiting game…
I wonder now what state my tubes are in, or more so my right side. I still now 6 years later get pain every so often and cramps are there down low on that right side when I’m on period.
Im so nervous about trying again but at the same time want to try more then anything. I’m 32 and so very grateful for my daughter who is 12. I’m also very grateful as I know a lot of couples have been through alot worse then me.
Is there any advice anything I can do to encourage a healthy pregnancy 
Thankyou.
Dear Sarah32x,
I am sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss. I too had an ectopic pregnancy 6 years ago and I still occasionally find it very upsetting. Trying to conceive again for me was difficult mentally and we commonly hear from women who feel exactly the same.
It is completely normal to feel anxious about the future. We can experience a mix of emotions from wanting to try again to being petrified of what may lie ahead.
Studies suggest the chances of pregnancy are about same irrespective of the type of treatment - Expectant management, medical management or surgery. The chances of a further ectopic after a first in UK is 10%. So thats 90% chance of the embryo being in right place next time.
Importantly early scans avail. As soon as you know you are pregnant, contact your local EPU to inform them and book in for early scan at around six weeks. Remind them of your previous ectopic pregnancy. This self refer route is the best route in our view. Hopefully there will be some comfort to know you are under the radar of medical professionals right away.
While generally it is possible to conceive after an ectopic pregnancy, the amount of time it takes varies from couple to couple. Factors include age, general health, reproductive health and how often you have sex, among other things. It may be comforting to know that 65% of women are successfully pregnant within 18 months of experiencing an ectopic pregnancy and some studies suggest this rises to around 85% after two years.
Making the decision to begin trying to conceive is an emotional rollercoaster compounded by our sad loss. Again, you are not alone. We here emotional support whenever you need us.
Sending much love,
Karen x
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