Cramps and discomfort over one year after ectopic surgery

Preparing For Your Next Pregnancy
1

Hi,

I am hoping to get some advice/guidance on my current situation. I have a 3.5 year old boy and we started trying for another baby in October 2020. In November 2020 I fell pregnant however it was an ectopic pregnancy and had my left fallopian tube removed as the tube had ruptured and needed emergency surgery (around week 8).

Since the surgery I feel like Im constantly feeling cramping like sensation particularly just before the start of my period as well as just after the period has finished (around Day 4-5) which lasts for a couple of days. Then again I feel cramping during ovulation that goes on for a few days. When I asked my Gyn he said it was normal and to take paracetamol/nurofen for pain relief. However I want to know what could be causing this discomfort/cramping so I can put my mind to rest.

Also, we have been trying to conceive for the last one year and not had much luck. I also have a low ovarian reserve so my OB/GYN advised to try IVF. I had my first cycle last month which unfortunately failed and I had a lot of discomfort/cramping after the embryo transfer which eventually led to getting my period.

Every month over the last year is very stressful and each cramp makes me disappointed as well as anxious because I fear what if its another ectopic (until I finally get my period). Looking forward to hearing some positive stories. I really want a sibling for my little one soon. :crossed_fingers::crossed_fingers:

2

Hi ssr,

I am so sorry to hear that you have suffered an ectopic pregnancy and loss and are now going through this worrying situation. We usually advise women that pain and sensations following surgery for ectopic pregnancies can be due to scar tissue formed after surgery, as well as the heightened attention to cramps and ovulation. I certainly feel ovulation more intensely since my ectopic surgeries.

However, you are also doing the right thing by recording when the pain and sensations are felt. I would encourage you to be even more specific, noting exactly when/where the pain occurs, its duration, level of pain (e.g. 1-10 scale), and anything that brings relief (pain medication, heating pad). This information can then be shared with your doctors. We always suggest you continue to speak with your doctors about this pain especially if it is ongoing or you feel concerned.

TTC after an ectopic pregnancy can be an anxious time for many women. I know how strong the desire to have a child can be, and I encourage you to be extra-compassionate with yourself during this time. So many of these processes are well outside of our control. It’s important to have the emotional and physical support you need during this time. Please know that we are here for you throughout your journey. Please take good care and look after yourself.

With good wishes,

Michele

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811

Ectopic pregnancy patient information suite: Highly Commended in the 2019 BMA Patient Information Awards

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3

Thanks for your kind words and advice Michele. I really appreciate it.

Usually taking pain relief helps alleviate the cramping symptoms. They are also mostly generalised and can mostly be felt around the lower back as well as lower abdomen not any specific side as such.

Also, do you think scar tissues can cause infertility? Is it something that can be identified in an ultrasound scan because all my tests so far have come back as normal.

Appreciate your assistance.

Shveta