Hi all! I had my surgery about 12 days ago. I had the keyhole procedure with 3 incisions and they had to remove my left tube. They also said I had a cyst on my right tube. I’m really worried about my biggest incision becoming infected. I’ve already been to the GP for infection because it was “oozing” and I’m on antibiotics. This is my first surgery and I’m not sure what normal recovery time for incisions are. I just started having light bleeding today (I didn’t have any up until now). I’m worried if this is all normal? Can anyone tell me how long it took them to recover? Or any similar experiences? I’m worried because I don’t anything to happen to my only tube. I just want it to heal properly and healthy.
Dear Ash90,
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.
It is not unusual for women to bleed after treatment for ectopic pregnancy and apologies if this is a little hard to read but the first bleed that occurs after treatment for ectopic pregnancy is not classed as a period. It is the body’s response to falling hormone levels because you are sadly no longer pregnant. The body expels the lining of the uterus that had built up in preparation for the pregnancy because it is no longer needed. This process involves vaginal bleeding - it can be clotty or like one of your usual periods and some women have bleeding/spotting for up to six weeks.
Generally, 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.
We have more information about what to expect post surgery here-
https://www.ectopic.org.uk/patients/treatment/
Please be kind to yourself and allow time to grieve, to heal both physically and emotionally,
Sending much love,
Karen x
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
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