Trouble Sleeping

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1

Hey,

I recently had my second ectopic (3 weeks ago) which unfortunately ruptured and resulted in emergency surgery to remove my fallopian tube. Whilst my wounds seem to be healing well I’m finding that I’m really struggling with my sleep.

I feel exhausted all the time but always find that I’m struggling to actually fall asleep. I either can’t seem to switch off mentally and/or find that I can’t get comfortable due to ongoing physical pain from recovery.

Is this normal? Has this happened to others? Any tips on how to overcome this would be greatly appreciated - I’ve tried the usual stuff (no phones before bed, warm shower before bed, hot drinks, going to bed early and reading a book, low lighting in my room etc etc.) I’ve also tried to listen to recommended playlists to help relax into sleep but not finding anything working. Also now worrying that I’m hugely overthinking it!

Thanks
Keren

2

Hi Keren,

You have been through a lot in such a short space of time. It does not surprise me that it is only now that your feelings start to surface. I was the same, I kept going through the motions of the physical recovery, but once that started to improve, the emotional impact started to hit home.

Be kind to yourself at this stage, and allow time for the emotional recovery, as it is normal to feel physically and emotionally exhausted. Recovery can take time, and some days will be better than others. One day, you may be okay; the next, you may be more uncomfortable or emotional. This is perfectly usual, and the healing process will go back and forth in this way for however long you need. It is essential to listen to your body’s signals. Pain and feeling tired are your body’s signals to tell you to rest. We suggest keeping a healthy diet, drinking lots of water, and resting.

There is no set timeframe for emotional recovery. There are no “musts” or “shoulds” or deadlines. Grieve as you wish and cry, vent, and release your emotions as you need. Recovery is not always a smooth path, however. With time though, I began to accept what had happened and, although we never forget, it is something that is a part of us that we learn to live with.
Many colleagues at the Trust suggest writing in a journal to help process the many elements. It can help you focus on understanding what happened, get the words out of your head, and bring attention to all of your feelings.

I like taking time for mate and going on short walks, you may prefer to be with close friends or family now. There is no right or wrong way here; do what helps you.

We, of course, will be here for you for as long as you need.

With good wishes,

Michele

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811

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

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

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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

Hi, i am nearly 5 weeks post op from tube removal also. I too am struggling some nights to switch off and fall to sleep.
Don’t know if you have tried this but when i have those nights where i can’t switch off. I usr the notes on my phone and write down exactly what’s racing through my mind and then read it back to myself which sometimes can help “settle” the thoughts i am having.
Hope this may help you too
Steph

4

Hi there,

Thanks so much for your feedback.

I understand that not sleeping is generally going to be down to my feelings and that the timeframe is not set in stone but I’m really just wondering if there are any tactics that are useful for getting to sleep without having to take sleeping pills.

I know that addressing my feelings should help me to overcome things and sleep better but I feel like I can’t sleep properly at all. Whether it be a nap or sleeping at night, I’m really struggling to drop off and then when I eventually do I’m struggling to stay asleep for more than an hour or two at most.

There won’t even be anything in particular that’s running through my head that I can articulate. It just feels like I can’t switch off but I’m so exhausted. I just want a good night sleep that doesn’t involve me waking up about 7/8 times with my mind racing and/or from the physical pain at my wound sites.

Sorry if that has come across rude. It’s really not coming from that sort of place. I’m just feeling frustrated and generally shattered :sweat_smile:

Thanks

5

Hey!

Thanks for your response. I actually tried this myself initially too but find being on my phone wakes me up even more when I’m struggling to sleep so it then feels counter productive :sweat_smile:

Thanks
Keren

6

Dear Keren,
Have you tried sleep stories or sleep apps with music or noise or mindfulness techniques?
There is more information on the NHS about sleep hygiene which may help and they also discuss some mindfulness techniques you can try
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips/how-to-fall-asleep-faster-and-sleep-better/#mindfulness
There are apps such as Headspace and Calm which you can look at too, but these generally have a cost to sign up.

I hope these help,
Best wishes,
Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811

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

If the information provided here or through the EPT website has helped you, you can donate towards our support services, volunteer, or fundraise to raise awareness.

Further information is available on our website.

Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk

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

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