I had an ectopic pregnancy tube removal surgery 7 weeks ago. I already had my first period 3 weeks after the surgery. Now I am waiting on my second period after surgery. It is two days away but I am currently spotting. I have not taken a pregnancy test due to the fact that my period is not late but I cannot help to be scared about a possible pregnancy. I am not ready in any way to have a baby after what occurred. Is it normal for spotting to occur days before period/cycle being irregular (despite it never being irregular before surgery)?
Hi Bori137,
I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve suffered an ectopic pregnancy and loss. Your surgery is still quite recent, and it is incredibly important to look after yourself and allow time for yourself to heal both physically and emotionally.
Many women experience changes to their menstrual cycles after an ectopic pregnancy and it can take some time to settle back into a rhythm that is more usual for you. Periods can be heavier or lighter or more painful than before - as we are so individual there isn’t necessarily a set pattern. Doctors consider menstrual cycles of between 23-42 days to be within normal parameters and, if you find that you are not within these sorts of timeframes, it would be a good idea to speak to your doctors just to be on the safe side.
Future pregnancies and ttc can also cause us to be anxious following an ectopic pregnancy. If you feel you may be pregnant, a test can help confirm or deny that possibility. As well, with future pregnancies, you can self-refer into your local EPU for an early scan (around 6 weeks) to be monitored from the earliest stages. As I am not medically qualified, I always encourage women to follow up with their GP with any particular questions on changes to their bodies or cycles following an ectopic pregnancy.
With good wishes,
Michele
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
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