Hello,
I had a ruptured ovarian ectopic pregnancy about 11 weeks ago. Things moved quickly - I found out I was pregnant late one afternoon and that same evening I was in A&E feeling faint and looking extremely pale. Shortly afterwards I collapsed in the hospital bed and I went into shock from the blood loss. I had to be resuscitated with blood and fluids and was rushed in for emergency surgery in the early hours of the morning. I lost about 3 litres of blood and had 3 blood transfusions.
Recovery has taken so much longer than I’d expected. I initially had heart palpitations during my first few weeks of recovery and felt breathless when walking at a slow pace. Both of these symptoms have now passed. I’m no longer anaemic, and was on iron tablets for 2 weeks after the surgery.
I was wondering if anyone out there has any advice on recovery from blood loss? There doesn’t seem to be much information out there on rough timescales and what to expect. It would be good to know how long it has taken you to feel “normal” again. I’m finding the tiredness a bit frustrating. I understand an ectopic pregnancy is a huge psychological and physical experience to go through, but just when I feel like I’ve got over the tiredness it hits me again. Has anyone else found their first few periods have completely wiped them out? I’ve had what feels like a tension headache on and off for about 2-3 weeks now. It’s a strange feeling, like a dull, constant pressure on my temples. I’m also very aware of my pulse points.
Sadly I’ve found that drinking tea makes things worse, and chocolate.
Dear curiouscat,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy loss. From your own words I can imagine what a frightening experience this must have been and I am so sorry you have had to go through this.
It maybe that after everything you have been through your body is just taking longer to recover.
Unfortunately we are not able to provide personalised medical advice, but generally speaking if your bloods show that you are no longer anaemic, your symptoms should have improved. As this does not appear to be the case, I would advise speaking to your doctor. If your periods have been very heavy, you may be anaemic again. I would discuss the headaches with your doctor too.
I hope you start to feel better soon and we will be here for you for as long as you need.
Sending much love,
Karen x
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
Registered Charity Number: 1071811
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