How to Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy (with Images)

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How to Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy (with Images)
How to Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy (with Images)

Video: How to Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy (with Images)

Video: How to Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy (with Images)
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In an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo (fertilized egg) is implanted elsewhere in the reproductive tract, not in the uterus. In most cases, implantation is performed in the fallopian tubes, but in rare cases it can occur in the ovary or abdomen. Ectopic pregnancies are not viable and cannot produce a healthy fetus, presenting a serious health risk to the mother and requiring immediate treatment. After completion of treatment, the patient begins the recovery process, which is often complicated.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Physically Recovering

Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 1
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 1

Step 1. Understand treatment options

Your doctor will choose the method of treatment based on your health, the site of the ectopic pregnancy, and the extent of existing damage to Organs reproductive organs.

  • Some ectopic pregnancies are eliminated by the body. If you are in early pregnancy and do not have any negative symptoms, your doctor will likely recommend active monitoring to see if the body expels the fetus without further treatment. Overall, this is an option that only makes sense when pregnancy hormone (HCG) levels are low and there are no symptoms.
  • If the pregnancy is diagnosed early and you have no internal bleeding, your doctor may suggest an injection of methotrexate to stop the growth of cell division, including the tissue of pregnancy (so it is important to rule out a normal pregnancy before using this method.). A few injections should be enough for the method to work completely.
  • Laparoscopic salpingostomy is a procedure that removes pregnancy tissue without touching the fallopian tubes. The method is usually suitable for ectopic pregnancies diagnosed before the fallopian tubes rupture. Most surgical treatments for the problem use laparoscopic salpingostomy, which is performed under general anesthesia and involves inserting a small tube with a camera and light through a small incision.
  • Total salpingectomy may be necessary in case of extensive damage to the tubes, heavy bleeding, or a large ectopic pregnancy. In the procedure, the tube containing the ectopic pregnancy is completely removed.
  • Laparotomy is an abdominal surgery usually performed in cases of emergency fallopian tubes or bleeding. The procedure typically involves larger incisions and longer recovery times compared to laparoscopic salpingostomy.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 2
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 2

Step 2. Find out about the physical recovery process of the procedure chosen by the doctor

Recovery time is highly dependent on the procedure used.

  • You can probably go home the same day after having laparoscopic surgery. Recovery is relatively quick and women tend to walk quickly again. It is possible to resume activities within a week or two, but full recovery may take a month.
  • Laparotomy requires a hospital stay for a few days because of the deeper incision and interference with bowel function. You should only eat liquids after surgery, eating solid foods only the next day. The incisions may need up to six weeks to recover.
  • As minimal as the recovery process from ectopic pregnancies that do not require surgery, your doctor should carefully monitor your health to ensure that the pregnancy resolves on its own.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 3
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 3

Step 3. Avoid physical activities

You should start to feel better a few days after surgery, but don't force your body with excessive physical activity. Avoid any movements that stretch or strain the incision region.

  • Do not lift anything over 10 kg for the first week.
  • Climb stairs slowly, pausing between steps.
  • Walk whenever you feel able. Don't try to run.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 4
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 4

Step 4. Prepare for constipation

Abdominal surgeries can interfere with bowel function, causing constipation. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to treat the problem. Despite this, there are some things you can do on your own:

  • Eat fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
  • Drink a lot of water.
  • Consume laxatives (following doctor's recommendations).
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 5
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 5

Step 5. Prepare for regular checkups

If you have had a salpingectomy or been treated with methotrexate injections, you will need regular tests to determine if your HCG hormone levels have returned to zero. If not, more injections might be needed.

Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 6
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 6

Step 6. Be ready to feel pain

There are several reasons that can cause pain after an ectopic pregnancy. Recovery from incisions can take time, causing pain and even scarring. If the pain is persistent or too severe, contact a doctor.

  • When the body tries to return to the regular menstrual cycle, which usually happens after four to six weeks of treatment, you may experience pain.
  • Some women often "feel" ovulation after ectopic pregnancies, and in some cases it is possible to experience pain when ovulating.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 7
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 7

Step 7. Recognize the signs that require medical help

Pain is the body's way of telling you to rest, but some of the symptoms below are worth a visit to the doctor:

  • Fever (above 38°C).
  • Vaginal discharge, mainly with a putrid odor.
  • Lumps around the incision or a red, hot scar.
  • Discharge in the incision.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Dizziness or fainting.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 8
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 8

Step 8. Discuss contraception with your doctor

Some contraceptive methods cannot be used after an ectopic pregnancy and it is necessary to discuss the best option with a gynecologist.

  • IUDs and progesterone contraceptives are not usually recommended after ectopic pregnancies.
  • The treatment chosen can also make the sexual act dangerous. Talk to your doctor to find out how long it is best to avoid sex.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 9
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 9

Step 9. Wait to get pregnant again

If the pregnancy has been treated with methotrexate, your doctor should let you know how long you need to wait before trying to get pregnant again. The process usually takes between one and three months, depending on the dosage received. Methotrexate can cause problems in pregnancy by reducing the availability of folic acid to the fetus, so it's best to wait for the drug to leave your system.

Method 2 of 2: Recovering emotionally

Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 10
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 10

Step 1. Understand that what you are feeling is natural

Ectopic pregnancy is a draining experience both physically and emotionally. There are several reasons that can make you nervous, sad or worried, and you need to know that there is nothing wrong with that. There is no "right" or "wrong" when it comes to feeling.

  • Your body's hormonal balance has undergone major changes, which can cause depression, agitation, palpitations and dizziness.
  • Even if the body is unable to complete an ectopic pregnancy, it can be devastating to discover that an abortion is required.
  • You may be concerned about your health or your ability to get pregnant again.
  • You can blame yourself, but know that none of this is your fault.
  • Recovery from extensive surgery can further damage your hormonal balance.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 11
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 11

Step 2. Discuss psychological counseling with your doctor

It is likely that the hospital can appoint a psychologist trained in pregnancy-related issues. It can be helpful to discuss the things you have gone through with a mental health professional.

  • It might be a good idea to include your partner in counseling. Some people have difficulty expressing their feelings, and couples therapy can help them get through this phase together.
  • There is a common myth that men do not suffer when a pregnancy is lost, but several studies suggest this is not true. Men view suffering differently, but they also feel anger or depression at the loss of a pregnancy.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 12
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 12

Step 3. Talk to family and friends if you like

No one should force you to talk about something you don't want, but support from people close to you can be helpful at this stage. Find people who are not afraid to acknowledge their loss and support them through this difficult time.

Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 13
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 13

Step 4. Find a support group

For recovery, it's very important that you don't feel lonely, so find a support group where you can talk to people who have been through similar situations to better process your feelings.

  • Search the National Association of Endometriosis, Infertility and Chronic Pain of Brazil to find support groups near you.
  • Look for support groups for missed pregnancies at community centers and nearby hospitals.
  • Find other people who have suffered from ectopic pregnancies and meet with them to talk.
  • Some forums, such as BabyCenter, provide spaces for you to discuss your situation. It is also possible to talk to professionals and share what you are feeling.
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 14
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 14

Step 5. Be kind to yourself

Some women feel better after doing something special after the difficulty of an ectopic pregnancy. A visit to a spa or something similar can ease the sadness and improve your mood. Maybe you just want to sit on the couch and watch a light movie. Do what makes you better.

Don't feel guilty for being kind to yourself. An ectopic pregnancy can be an exhausting process both physically and emotionally, and you need time to recover

Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 15
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 15

Step 6. Exercise when it's safe

Physical activity can help you reduce sadness and regain lost energy. Exercise releases endorphins in the body, which improves mood. Ask your doctor when you can start physical activity.

Do not do any high-impact activity without first consulting your doctor

Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 16
Recover from an Ectopic Pregnancy Step 16

Step 7. Talk to a doctor before trying to get pregnant again

The provider should let you know when your body is physically ready for a pregnancy, as well as the potential risk of another ectopic pregnancy. Some of the risk factors include smoking, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and past ectopic pregnancies. Women in risk groups should be closely monitored in subsequent pregnancies to address potential problems early.

Consult a reproductive endocrinologist for fertility treatments if deemed necessary. You will need to evaluate the fallopian tubes, for example, and this is the best professional for that

Tips

  • Half of women who have an ectopic pregnancy are able to maintain a healthy pregnancy in the future. Some studies suggest that about 85% of women who try to get pregnant succeed within two years of an ectopic pregnancy.
  • An ectopic pregnancy reduces your chances of getting pregnant again and increases your chances of having another ectopic pregnancy.

Notices

  • Ectopic pregnancy can be fatal. The fetus cannot be healthy. It is necessary to seek treatment.
  • If you experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, or pain when urinating or defecating during pregnancy, seek immediate medical help.

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