Hi everyone.
Just thought I’d tell my story and see if anyone has any positive stories as I feel I need them!
In April this year I found out I was pregnant with first and over the moon… then about 2 weeks later after a misdiagnosis after being rushed to hospital with awful pains and passing out twice was told it was gastritis they finally organised for me to have an early scan.
At the scan (and by this time I had started bleeding) they said there was no baby in the uterus. I was quickly rushed to theatre which was the scariest time of my life as everything happened so quickly. When I woke they said the baby was in my ovary and they had managed to remove the baby without harming anything. We have started trying again this month while on a well needed holiday but now I’m back I’m panicking loads that it’s all going to happen again. Any advice or reassurance greatly welcome x
Dear Emma6105,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss, 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.
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. If you are unable to self refer, please contact your GP who can do this for you.
The chances of a further ectopic after a first in UK is 10%. So that’s 90% chance of the embryo being in right place next time. While generally it is possible to conceive after an ectopic pregnancy, the amount of time it takes varies from couple to couple. Factors include age, general health, reproductive health and how often you have sex, among other things. It may be comforting to know that 65% of women are successfully pregnant within 18 months of experiencing an ectopic pregnancy and some studies suggest this rises to around 85% after two years.
Making the decision to begin trying to conceive is an emotional rollercoaster compounded by our sad loss. Again, 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.
Sending much love and warm hugs,
Karen x
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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).
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