Ectopic pregnancy in the removed stump

Preparing For Your Next Pregnancy
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I had a salpingectomy end of May after my right tube ruptured (methotrexate failed for me as the baby had a heartbeat until the end). Throughout the ordeal, I thought to myself ‘I can’t go through this pain and heartache again’. It was an extremely difficult time and I was sure I didn’t want children because of what I had experienced. But to my surprise (and my husband’s), I realised a few months back that I actually really wanted a baby, in fact more than before the ectopic pregnancy. My heart aches when I see a baby, I feel like a childless mother which is a very new feeling for me. This realisation gave me an odd peace sense of peace and direction, it was cathartic. I have since been working to rebuild my physical, emotional and psychological strength, I now had a goal. I decided a few back I was ready to try again.

I was feeling optimistic, hopeful and actually quite excited about the prospect of starting to try again. I am aware of the risks of reoccurrence in the remaining tube but had managed to get to a point of positivity and hope. However, I recently came across a medical article about the rare prospect of ectopic pregnancies happening in the stump of the removed tube. This has floored me and I am paralysed with fear. I read some medical papers and have learnt about how dangerous they are. I am so overwhelmed and feel like all my rebuilt optimism and hope that I too can have a healthy pregnancy one day has turned to dust. I was holding onto the statistic that I have a 90% of not having another ectopic instead of the focusing on 10% chance of reoccurrence. I don’t know what to do with this new risk I have learnt about and am frankly petrified.

I would appreciate any sort of reassurance and clarity on this risk. I can’t lose all hope again.

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Hi Cactus_Fruit,

I know how worrying thinking about ttc can be following an ectopic pregnancy. I suffered two ectopics, the second one being in the stump of the first. It is very rare, but yes, it requires quick attention. In time, I did conceive two children naturally after these two ectopics. One thing I’ve learned about ectopic pregnancy is to make sure you are advocating for yourself and asking the questions you need.

The waiting in early pregnancy is particularly difficult as we seek some certainty of what will come. Many of us are anxious as we ttc and in future pregnancies. Please know that you are not alone. Having previously suffered an ectopic pregnancy, you can self-refer to the EPU for an early 6-week scan, which can help provide some early clarity and support.

As you navigate this time, be mindful of your symptoms during early pregnancy. I took solace in knowing that the medical support was there for me, no matter what would come. The other thing I just wanted to say is that ectopic recovery sometimes takes longer than we think it will. If you and your partner need extra time, please take it. These are traumatic events, and new pregnancies can trigger old feelings. With this in mind, please remember we are here for you whenever you need us.

With good wishes,

Michele

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

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