Help please.

Hiya,

I would really appreciate some advice to put my mind at ease. I had my right tube removed just over a week ago. I’ve had absolutely no pain on my right side, but lots on my left. Even down my left leg and around to my hip. I do have a wound on my left side rather than my right, could this be why it’s hurting? I’m just so paranoid that something is wrong with my one remaining healthy tube!

Thank you x

Hey, I can’t tell for sure what you have, so definitely mention it during your post-surgery check-up.

But I can tell you that my right tube was removed as well, and I seemed to be hurting on both sides equally and sometimes more on the left (thought not in the leg like you describe). My doctor explained to me that to do the laparoscopy, they ‘worked’ on the left side. So all the instruments went in on that side and the tube was removed through the hole they made there as well. The wound is also larger than the one on my right side or the one in my belly button. So he said it was normal to experience a bit more pain there.

I was also a bit paranoid about things going wrong after the surgery, and he said that things like post-op bleeding and the likes would not happen after more than 48 hours after surgery.

I hope this helps, and I wish you a speedy recovery. And if you’re worried, always go to your doc, you deserve a bit of extra attention.

Thank you. I’m going to try and get a dr appointment tomorrow as it is still hurting all down my left leg! X

Dear Melissa1987,

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

It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort as you recover over the next few weeks​ as this is part of the healing process. The discomfort should reduce over the next few weeks and I would suggest taking the pain relief that has been prescribed for you as directed by your doctors. However as you are concerned about the pain I agree you should discuss this with your GP and I hope​you have managed to get an appointment.

Whilst I do not wish to alarm you, if you find that you have an increased body temperature of more than 37°C or offensive smelling discharge or the wound site starts oozing or feels hot to touch, please do get medical attention as soon as possible as these can be signs of infection.

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.

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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