Suspected Ectopic Pregnancy

Main Board
1

Hi, not sure whether I’m looking for advice or reassurance or maybe just somewhere to vent.

Found Out I was pregnant on the 04/12 my LMP was 5/11 so I should be around 8 weeks pregnant.

I had some pain and spotting Xmas eve so GP referred me to Gynae as EPU had closed. Was examined there and bloods taken. The pain and spotting stopped after a couple of hours. Had to repeat the bloods Boxing Day and got a call the next day to advise it wasn’t looking great as they had gone from around 3000 to 4000. Had to go back the following day for bloods which had increased to 7300. They booked me in for a scan the next day which showed any signs of pregnancy other than a thickened lining. Had repeat bloods again which had increased slightly but not as they should so went back yesterday to speak to the doctor in Gynae. He has advised it is likely ectopic as my levels continue to rise and my hcg would show the embryo if it was in the correct place.

He said I had 2 options, both would result in keyhole as my hcg too high for the injection. I can wait for a scan with the consultant to see if they can locate it, they would then remove via keyhole. Or I can go straight in for keyhole and they will explore to locate it. if tubal they will remove the tube as long as my other tube looks healthy. He said both are safe options currently as I am showing no concerning signs. He also said they wouldn’t book me in for surgery either way until after the bank holiday as I am otherwise well.

I said I would wait for another scan prior to surgery as In my mind it’s better to locate it first than having to search for it during surgery. So now it’s all a bit of a waiting game. Not going to lie I’m absolutely terrified of having surgery, mainly for fear that something will happen to me. (I have a 4 year old daughter) I know this is highly unlikely but I can’t seem to shake the fear whilst I’m waiting which is driving me insane. I haven’t even got as far as thinking about the fact I no longer have a viable pregnancy or that I may loose my tube. Suppose I am just looking for similar stories of anyone who had to wait and how they got over the fear of the unknown. Thanks.

2

Dear Hughesy,

I think you hit the mail on the head when you said fear of the unknown. It is so worrying when we have no idea what is going on with our own bodies. I hope the scan gives you a little more clarification and your medical team are able to advise you further.

I know it is a very frightening time, I would advise having trying to have a restful time until your scan with no heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. If you experience any worsening pain or bleeding, please seek urgent medical advice.

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

Ectopic pregnancy patient information suite: Highly Commended in the 2019 BMA Patient Information Awards

During the coronavirus outbreak, The EPT team is still working hard to provide crucial information and support to women and families experiencing ectopic pregnancy as quickly and efficiently as we can.

If we have been able to help you, are you able to help us with a small donation or by volunteering or fundraising?

Further information is available at ectopic.org.uk

Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk

We provide a call-back helpline service: 020 7733 2653

Take a look at our newsletters and subscribe to our mailing list here: https://mailchi.mp/986bdd6091ee/ectopic-matters

Detailed medical information can be found on our website. Please remember online medical information is NO SUBSTITUTE for expert medical advice from your own health care team

3

Thanks Karen for your reply. I won’t lie it has been quite possibly the worst week of my life. My consultant saw me Tuesday afternoon and managed to locate the pregnancy at the wider end of my tube near my ovary. Hence the minor symptoms. It had grown quite large so they wanted to keep me in overnight for surgery the next day. I had my surgery Wednesday evening and was allowed home yesterday. Surgery went well, apparently just in time as it has started to bleed a little, they’ve taken my left tube. Quite sore today but to be back home with my partner and daughter. I think the relief from the physical worry of it all is my main feeling right now. I’m sure my other emotions will catch up soon and I can begin to work through it x

4

Dear Hughesy,

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.

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

Ectopic pregnancy patient information suite: Highly Commended in the 2019 BMA Patient Information Awards

During the coronavirus outbreak, The EPT team is still working hard to provide crucial information and support to women and families experiencing ectopic pregnancy as quickly and efficiently as we can.

If we have been able to help you, are you able to help us with a small donation or by volunteering or fundraising?

Further information is available at ectopic.org.uk

Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk

We provide a call-back helpline service: 020 7733 2653

Take a look at our newsletters and subscribe to our mailing list here: https://mailchi.mp/986bdd6091ee/ectopic-matters

Detailed medical information can be found on our website. Please remember online medical information is NO SUBSTITUTE for expert medical advice from your own health care team