What is normal?

I found out I was pregnant Sept 20 this year. I do have very regular periods and have two children one 16 and the other 4. So I never thought this was a possibility. I then found out it was ectopic after three appts with my doctor. Got the shot of methotrexate on September 27. Only to find out my levels were too high over 17000 for the shot to work. Went in for a doctors appt on October 3rd for them to send me straight to the hospital for surgery to remove my right tube. My doctor was very assuring after told me my left tube was healthy and which was all I need to conceive if I wanted to in November. Then this is where it gets confusing my breast started hurting October 25th so I thought I was getting my period. Only to have very light spotting (light pink and sometimes rust colored) only on the tissue for 5 days. I did take three tests all negative. At this point I’m very confused was that my period or what was it. I’m almost five weeks post operation. I just want to feel normal again.

Dear Momof,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy loss.
This sounds as though it could have been your first period. The first period can be lighter than normal, heavier, shorter or longer, there really is no set pattern, It can also take a few months for periods to settle back into a rhythm that is more normal for you and this is why The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust and many doctors recommend waiting for 2 menstrual cycles before trying to conceive. It is important to allow time for your body to recover and emotions to surface. This is also so that you have some comfort that your body is returning to its natural rhythm and you will also have a last menstrual period date from which to date a new pregnancy - key information in checking you are not suffering from an ectopic pregnancy in the future.

We are however, unable to provide individualised medical advice and if you are concerned about any symptoms you are experiencing, please speak to your medical team or doctor.
Making the decision to begin trying to conceive is an emotional rollercoaster often compounded by our sad loss. Again, you are not alone. We have emotional support whenever you need us. There is a specific Preparing for your Next Pregnancy board you can look at whenever you feel ready.

Sending much love,
Karen x

Karen
Thank you so much for putting my mind at ease. This has definitely been a struggle to say the least. :heart: I am going to be 40 next year and never thought this would happen. So ttc is discouraging for me due my age and now having my tube removed. But I won’t lie it’s definitely something I think about maybe to push away this pain.

Not to mention the lack of compassion from people who have never been through this. I don’t know anyone so this forum has helped me so much in terms of my emotions. Most days I feel dramatic for crying and force myself to stop. I also don’t like speaking about it to anyone since tomorrow marks 5 weeks from the day of my surgery And I don’t want to seem like I’m seeking pity. I try and appear strong but sometimes I breakdown in privacy by myself.

Dear Momof2,

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. Please be kind to yourself and allow time to grieve and heal both physically and emotionally.
These boards are a safe space to share, ask questions, or to vent. They are filled with people who have been through similar experiences and journeys, and we are here for you for as long as you need.

Sending much love,
Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
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