This is my first post on here, just looking for a bit of advice.
I had surgery on Friday 26th January, which resulted in my left fallopian tube being removed. I had some light bleeding after this until Tuesday 30th when I got period pains and the bleeding got heavier. This continued like a normal period until Sunday.
Monday and Tuesday nothing, then Tuesday night I had some spotting when I wiped.
Is this normal or is it something I should be worried about?
I’m finding that every little thing is worrying me since this all happened. It all happened so quickly.
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss,
The first bleed that occurs after treatment, like the one you are experiencing is not classed as a period. It is the body’s response to falling hormone levels because you are sadly no longer pregnant. The body expels the lining of the uterus that had built up in preparation for the pregnancy because it is no longer needed. This process involves vaginal bleeding - it can be clotty or like one of your usual periods and some women have bleeding/spotting for up to six weeks.
While this is usually nothing to worry about, if you find that the bleeding increases so that you are soaking more than a pad in an hour or have offensive smelling discharge or body temperature of more than 37°C, please do get medical attention.
Experiencing an ectopic pregnancy is a huge ordeal and you are in the early stages of recovery. Your body needs time to heal from your surgery which is in itself a gruelling task. You have also had to process the loss of your baby and been through an immense rollercoaster of emotions - all of this will take time to come to terms with.
You should take it very easily for about six weeks after surgery. Your body will be using its energies to heal internally. It is normal to feel physically and emotionally exhausted during this time and please do be kind to yourself. Recovery can take time and some days will be better than others, one day you maybe ok and the next you maybe in discomfort or more emotional. This is perfectly usual and the healing process will go back and forth in this way for however long you need. It is important to listen to your body’s signals and pain and feeling tired are your body’s signs to tell you to rest. We suggest keeping a healthy balanced diet, drinking lots of water and resting. Once your wounds have healed, very gentle exercise such as a short walk can help, but please do take this slowly.
Sending much love,
Karen x
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Thank you for this post. I’m sadly recovering from my 2nd ectopic pregnancy in 6 months and have now lost both my tubes. I’m on day 5 and have just started to bleed so this is reassuring me. I slept for a week last time and bled later on but I’m more alert and together this time. Thanks for all those who provide their support on here x
Our helpline is 020 7733 2653 (available Monday to Friday 10am - 4pm).
Detailed medical information can be found on our website. Please remember online medical information is NO SUBSTITUTE for expert medical advice from your own health care team.