Physical Recovery, up and down!

Hi all

It is 3 weeks since my ectopic surgery and removal of my tube. Also involved 3l blood loss, transfusions etc.

Physically until this weekend I’ve been feeling not too bad, very little pain and not too tired but today I feel like I have been knocked for six and wonder if this is normal or if I should be worried? Not sure if this is related to the anemia post op or something else.

I have a small amount of pain which feels like internal scars are healing, nothing terrible.

I don’t have any follow up appointments or anything so feel a bit like I’m unsure what to expect!

Sarah xx

Dear Sarah,

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.

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.

Hospitals do not routinely offer follow up following tube removal, but you can always speak to your GP with any questions.

We have more information on recovery from ectopic here

https://ectopic.org.uk/patients/your-bo … pregnancy/

And emotions here

https://ectopic.org.uk/patients/emotional-impact/

It is important to remember that there is no timeframe for recovery, take each day as it comes.

Sending much love,

Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

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