Don't understand my own body

Main Board
1

I had surgery on the 19th December to remove an ectopic pregnancy and my tube as well.

Just a bit confused as I have not had a period yet but thought I had ovulated around the 1st January as had (pain is on right side, egg white for about 3 days) just a bit confused as if I did ovulate around then I should have had a period by now!!!

How long after having surgery dose it take for your body to get back in to normal. Mainly you period starting and getting back in to a proper cycle again??

2

Dear Dragonlady,

I am so sorry to hear of your ongoing worries.

Your periods can take a while to re-establish - they can re-start anything between two and ten weeks after surgery and most women find that their period arrives sometime around week six or seven after surgery.

The first period may be more painful or less so than usual, heavier or lighter, last for longer or shorter than usual – there really is no set pattern. You should be able to manage the discomfort with over-the-counter pain relief and should not be soaking a pad in less than an hour. If this is not the case, you should seek medical attention

Periods can be delayed for a number of reasons including stress or even (as surprising as it may sound) excessive exercise or weight loss. Doctors normally consider menstrual cycles of between 23-42 days to be within normal parameters. If it has been more than 42 days since the first day of your last period, I would suggest asking your doctors to investigate further. Also, while I do not want to alarm you, if you experience any pain or unusual bleeding, please do get medical attention as soon as you can.

Sending much love,

Karen x

If we have been able to help you, are you able to help us with a small donation or by volunteering?

Further information is available at www.ectopic.org.uk

Email us at ept@ectopic.org.uk.

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.