In an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus), the embryo (a fertilized egg) implants elsewhere in the reproductive system, not the uterus. Although the most common site of an ectopic pregnancy is in the fallopian tube, in rare cases, the embryo can also implant in the ovary or in the abdomen. Ectopic pregnancy does not survive. This means that the embryo will not be able to develop into a healthy fetus. That's why this ectopic pregnancy is very dangerous for the woman's body and must be handled appropriately. After the treatment is complete, the patient will begin the process of recovering from the sometimes difficult ectopic pregnancy.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Recover Physical
Step 1. Know the treatment options available
Treatment options for an ectopic pregnancy will depend on your health condition, the site of the ectopic pregnancy, and the extent of damage to the reproductive organs.
- Some ectopic pregnancies are aborted by the body. If the ectopic pregnancy is very early and you are not experiencing negative symptoms, your doctor will likely recommend "pregnancy management" or "active surveillance." In this process, you will have to wait for approximately one month under continuous doctor supervision, to see if your body can abort the ectopic pregnancy on its own without the need for additional treatment. Generally, this approach can be taken if your level of hCG (a hormone produced during pregnancy) is low and continues to decline, and you do not have any symptoms.
- If an ectopic pregnancy has been diagnosed early and there is no internal bleeding, the doctor will recommend a methotrexate injection. Methotrexate will stop the growth of rapidly dividing cells, including uterine tissue (so you must first confirm that this is not a normal pregnancy). The methotrexate injection may have to be repeated several times for complete success.
- Laparoscopic salpingostomy is a procedure to remove pregnancy tissue without removing part of the fallopian tube. This treatment is generally acceptable for early ectopic pregnancies, when the fallopian tubes have not ruptured. Most surgical treatments for ectopic pregnancy are laparoscopically performed under general anaesthesia. This procedure uses a small tube with a camera and lamp inserted through a small incision.
- A total salpingectomy may be necessary if the fallopian tube has been severely damaged, if you are bleeding heavily, or in the case of a large ectopic pregnancy. In a total salpingectomy, the fallopian tubes containing the ectopic pregnancy are removed.
- Laparotomy is an abdominal surgery that usually has to be done in cases of emergency, such as a ruptured fallopian tube or heavy bleeding. Laparotomy requires a larger incision and a longer healing period than laparoscopy.
Step 2. Ask your doctor about the physical healing process
The length of the healing period depends on each procedure performed.
- With laparoscopic surgery, you are usually able to go home on the same day. The healing process is quite fast, and most women are able to walk again right away. Generally, you can return to your normal activities within 7 to 14 days. And for a full recovery, it usually takes you about 1 month.
- After the laparotomy surgery, you will need to be hospitalized for several days because the incision is bigger and will interfere with bowel function. You will only be allowed to consume clear fluids the morning after surgery and only start solid foods within 24-36 hours. Laparotomy incisions can take up to 6 weeks to heal.
- In early ectopic pregnancies that do not require surgery, the physical healing process will only take a short time. But the doctor will carefully monitor your health to ensure that the ectopic pregnancy aborts on its own.
Step 3. Do not do sports or strenuous physical activity
You will feel comfortable only a few days after the operation. Do not force the body to do sports or physical activity too much. Also, don't do any movement that stretches or puts pressure on the stitches.
- In the first week, do not lift anything heavier than 9 kg.
- Go up the stairs slowly and rest after a few steps.
- Take a walk when you feel strong enough. Don't run.
Step 4. You will be constipated
Abdominal surgery will interfere with stomach function and cause constipation. Your doctor will tell you how to treat constipation. There are several things you can also do yourself, including:
- Eat high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Drink lots of water.
- Use laxatives or stool softeners (as recommended by your doctor).
Step 5. Prepare for routine tests at the hospital
If you are having a salpingostomy or being treated with methotrexate injections, you should have regular tests to see if the level of hCG in your body has dropped to zero. Otherwise, you will need additional methotrexate treatment.
Step 6. You will feel pain
There are several possible reasons why you may feel pain after an ectopic pregnancy. Surgical incisions take time to heal, and the scar tissue that forms can also be painful. If the pain is prolonged, severe, or unbearable, contact your doctor immediately.
- Pain can also be caused by the body in the process of returning the menstrual cycle back to normal. Your body will return to a normal menstrual cycle about 4-6 weeks after treatment, but it can take longer.
- Some women report that they are more aware of their ovulation period after an ectopic pregnancy. They also feel pain when ovulating.
Step 7. Recognize the signs that require you to seek medical attention
Pain is usually your body's way of telling you to rest. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms accompanied by pain, contact your doctor immediately:
- Fever (above 38°C)
- Discharge from the vagina, especially if it smells fishy or foul
- There are lumps or lumps around the surgical incision, or scar tissue that is red or hot to the touch
- Discharge from the surgical incision
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Dizziness or fainting
Step 8. Discuss contraception with your doctor
After an ectopic pregnancy, you will not be able to use certain types of birth control. Discuss contraceptive options with your doctor to determine the best one.
- IUDs and contraceptives containing only the hormone progesterone are usually not recommended after an ectopic pregnancy.
- You should also ask your doctor to determine when it is safe to have sex again. The type of treatment you get will greatly affect the timing.
Step 9. Allow time for the next pregnancy
If your ectopic pregnancy is being treated with methotrexate, your doctor will suggest a certain amount of time before you can get pregnant again. It is generally 1 to 3 months, depending on the dose you receive. Methotrexate can cause problems in early pregnancy, because it reduces the availability of folic acid to the fetus. So you have to wait until the medicine is completely out of the body.
Method 2 of 2: Recovering Emotionally
Step 1. Understand that your feelings are natural
An ectopic pregnancy is a physically and emotionally draining experience. There are several reasons why you might feel angry, worried, or sad. You have to realize that it is all natural and that there is nothing “wrong” with you. There are no "right" or "wrong" terms for feelings.
- Your body's hormonal balance is fluctuating. This condition can lead to depressive symptoms and cause symptoms such as palpitations (palpitations), agitation, and dizziness.
- Your body can't continue an ectopic pregnancy until a normal delivery, so it's natural to feel very sad when you learn that this pregnancy has to be aborted.
- You may be worried about your health and your body's ability to get pregnant again.
- You may blame yourself or feel guilty. You should know that this ectopic pregnancy is not your fault.
- Recovering from major surgery can add to your emotional burden.
Step 2. Ask your doctor about counselling
Your local hospital or clinic may be able to refer you to a counselor who specializes in pregnancy problems. Dialogue with a mental health professional can help you cope with the experience of fetal loss and major surgery.
- Instead, invite your partner to join counseling. Some people have difficulty expressing their feelings. Going to counseling with your partner can help both of you to get through these tough times.
- A common myth states that men do not feel sad if their partner loses the fetus they are carrying. But research shows that is not true. Men's expressions of sadness may differ from women's, but they can also feel angry or depressed after their partner loses a fetus.
Step 3. Talk to friends or family
But if you really don't want to talk about it, don't force it. Talking about it may help you get support from those closest to you. Find a friend or family member who isn't afraid to share your loss and can provide the support you need through tough times.
Step 4. Find a support group
One of the most important elements that can help with the healing process is "you don't feel alone in this." It's possible that in a support group you can find someone with a similar experience to help process your feelings.
- In America, there is RESOLVE: National Infertility Association, which has support groups throughout the state. You can find a list on their website.
- SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support also has a local support group in America. You can find the support group on their website.
- In the UK there is the Ectopic Pregnancy Trust and the Miscarriage Association which both offer resources and counseling for women who have had a miscarriage.
- These online support forums also provide a space for you to express your feelings. The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust maintains an online forum supervised by medical professionals. Here you can discuss experiences and share feelings.
Step 5. Be kind to yourself
Some women feel that doing something special for themselves can help them cope with the difficult times following an ectopic pregnancy. Going to a spa or some other kind of fun can ease your sadness and give you a sense of well-being. You can also pamper yourself by sitting on the couch and watching your favorite movie. Cover yourself with the love you need.
Don't feel guilty for pampering yourself. An ectopic pregnancy can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and you need time to heal
Step 6. Do the exercise once you are strong enough
Exercise after healing is a very effective way to minimize grief and re-gain lost energy. Physical activity will release happy hormones, namely endorphins, throughout the body. Endorphins can help improve mood naturally. Ask your doctor when you can start exercising.
Do not do anything strenuous without consulting a doctor
Step 7. Talk to your doctor before trying to get pregnant again after an ectopic pregnancy
Your doctor will tell you when your body is physically ready and the potential risks of an ectopic pregnancy. Some risk factors include smoking, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and having had a previous ectopic pregnancy. Women who are at high risk need to be watched closely during their next pregnancy, to see potential problems and provide treatment as soon as possible.
Visit a reproductive endocrinologist, an OB-GYN who has undergone subspecialty training in fertility treatment. For example, you need to have your fallopian tubes checked, so the doctor is the best person to do that
Tips
- About half of women who experience an ectopic pregnancy can get pregnant again normally. Some studies show that more than 85% of women who want to get pregnant again, can get pregnant within two years after an ectopic pregnancy.
- An ectopic pregnancy does reduce the chances of getting pregnant again, and increases the risk of having an ectopic pregnancy again.
Warning
- An ectopic pregnancy can turn into a life-threatening condition. The fetus that is conceived will not be able to grow into a healthy fetus. This situation really needs to be addressed immediately.
- If you are pregnant and experience abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, diarrhea, or pain when urinating or defecating, seek medical attention immediately.
