Healing Time

Hi all,

I am 4 weeks post a Laparoscopic Salpingectomy after a burst ectopic. Right tube gone with pregnancy.

Am at home now but still in quite a lot of discomfort around the affected area.

Just wondering if that’s normal? I’m still very tired and forcing myself to walk around but not doing any strenuous activity. Went back to work this week and it hurt too much to walk around that much.

They entered my stomach area to pump out 2L of blood and then both tube sides. These sites have healed and don’t hurt at all it’s where the tube used to be i’m still getting stabbing pains and it’s very tender.

I’m not on any painkillers. Should I go to the doctor?

Thank you.

Dear PerkP,

I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss,

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.

Experiencing some pain after an ectopic pregnancy is normal as your body has been through a great deal over the last few months. The pain may be due to adhesions (scar tissue that binds two parts of the body together) which form and take some time to settle. Your body may be preparing to ovulate and many women experience ovulation pain when they did not before their ectopic pregnancy - including myself. You also may have a heightened perception because of the sad loss that you have had to go through. If you find you experience offensive smelling discharge or an increased temperature of more than 37°C or just want to be checked out to be on the safe side, it would be worth asking your doctors to run tests to check for infection.

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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