Emotions after laparoscopic surgery

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Hey all.

I wrote on here after my ectopic pregnancy this summer and it was so therapeutic, so I’m here again. After my ectopic, I found a new doctor who thankfully is fantastic and listened to my concerns. She did an HSG test to ensure my tubes were clear so I could try again. Unfortunately, she found one of my tubes to be blocked, so the next step was laparoscopic surgery to clear or remove the tube. I have never had a surgery before (other than my wisdom teeth), so to say I was scared is an understatement. I absolutely hate feeling out of control and to me, that’s what anesthesia is. I ended up having the surgery this last Wednesday. She was able to save both my tubes and clear them, thank God! She also found out I had endometriosis and took care of that while also removing some cysts I had. I didn’t know about any of this, but had a suspicion I might’ve had endo. I have done really well after surgery with minimal pain. However, I am experiencing so many emotions. I have been so sad and tearful not knowing if I am ready for the next step of trying again. It is all so overwhelming (and traumatic). I don’t know if I’m ready for my body to go through so many changes again. I realize I don’t have to make this decision immediately. Has anyone else experienced this?

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Dear Talon,

I am so happy to hear you have answers and are recovering well from your procedure.

It is normal to feel anxious about the future. We experience a mix of emotions from wanting to try again to being petrified of what may lie ahead. We never forget but we can learn to accept what happened. It is a slow process that might be weeks or months ahead. In time, we can get to a place where we feel comfortable trying again. When this is, is individual for each person. There is no timeframe for recovery, take each day as it comes.

Importantly early scans avail. As soon as you know you are pregnant, contact your local EPU to inform them and book in for an 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 you will have some comfort to know you are under the radar of medical professionals right away.

Making the decision to begin trying to conceive is an emotional rollercoaster compounded by our sad loss, you are not alone. We here emotional support whenever you need us. There is a specific Preparing for your Next Pregnancy board you can look at too whenever feel ready.I

Sending much love,

Karen x

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