Some ectopic pregnancies are eliminated by the woman’s body. If your ectopic pregnancy is very early and you have no negative symptoms, your doctor may recommend “expectant management” or “active monitoring. ” With this process, you wait for approximately a month, with frequent doctor supervision, to see whether your body can resolve the ectopic pregnancy without additional treatment. In general, this approach only makes sense when your hCG (a hormone produced during pregnancy) levels are low and declining, and when you have no symptoms. [3] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source If the ectopic pregnancy has been diagnosed very early and you do not have internal bleeding, your doctor may suggest an injection of methotrexate. Methotrexate will stop the growth of rapidly dividing cells, including pregnancy tissue (so it’s important to rule out a normal pregnancy). It could take a couple of injections for this method to work completely. [4] X Trustworthy Source American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Professional association of OB/GYNs focused on education and public outreat initiatives Go to source A laparoscopic salpingostomy is a procedure that removes the pregnancy tissue without removing any portion of the tube. This treatment is generally appropriate for early ectopic pregnancies where the fallopian tube has not ruptured. Most surgical treatments of ectopic pregnancies use laparoscopy, which is done under general anesthesia and involves using a small tube with a camera and light inserted through a small incision. [5] X Research source A total salpingectomy may be necessary if the fallopian tube is very damaged, if you have very heavy bleeding, or in the case of a large ectopic pregnancy. In a total salpingectomy, the fallopian tube containing the ectopic pregnancy is removed. [6] X Research source A laparotomy is an abdominal surgery that is usually required in emergency cases of ruptured fallopian tubes or heavy bleeding. Laparotomies involve larger incisions and longer recovery times than laparoscopies. [7] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
With laparoscopic surgeries, you will usually be able to go home the same day as surgery. Recovery is fairly quick, with most women being able to resume walking. You can usually resume your regular activities within 7 to 14 days. It can take about a month to fully recover from laparoscopy. [8] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Surgeries done by laparotomy usually require several days in the hospital. This is because the incision is more extensive, and it will interfere with the functioning of your intestines. You will get clear liquids the morning after surgery and start solid foods within 24-36 hours. Laparotomy incisions may take up to 6 weeks to heal. While there may be little physical recovery necessary for early ectopic pregnancies that don’t require surgery, your doctor will carefully monitor your health to ensure the ectopic pregnancy resolves on its own.
Do not lift anything that weighs more than 20 pounds for the first week. Climb stairs slowly, pausing after every few steps. Walk around whenever you feel able to. Do not try to jog or run.
Eat high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink plenty of water. Use laxatives or stool softeners (as recommended by your doctor).
Pain may also be due to your body trying to resume its normal menstrual cycle. Your body may resume its normal cycle between 4-6 weeks after treatment, although it could take longer. Some women report that they are more aware of ovulation following an ectopic pregnancy. They may experience pain when ovulating. [12] X Research source
Fever (above 100F or 38C) Vaginal discharge, especially if it smells “fishy” or ”funky” Lumps or bumps around the incision or scar that are red or hot to the touch Discharge from the incision site Nausea and/or vomiting Dizziness or fainting
IUDs and progesterone-only contraception are usually not recommended after an ectopic pregnancy. You should also speak with your doctor to determine when it is safe to have sexual intercourse again. The treatment you received will largely determine this.
Your body’s hormonal balance has been in flux. This can lead to depressive symptoms. It can also cause symptoms such as palpitations, agitation, and dizziness. [16] X Research source Even though your body cannot carry an ectopic pregnancy to term, it can be devastating to learn that your pregnancy must be terminated. You may be worried about your health and your ability to have another pregnancy. You may blame yourself or feel guilty. You should know that ectopic pregnancies are not your fault. [17] X Research source Recovering from a major surgery can put further strain on your emotions. [18] X Research source
You may also wish to involve your partner in counseling. Some people may have difficulty expressing their feelings, and going to counseling together may help both of you work through this difficult time. [20] X Research source [21] X Research source It is a common myth that men do not grieve the loss of a pregnancy. However, research suggests this is not true. Men may express their grief differently than women, but they may also experience anger or depression after their partners lose a pregnancy. [22] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source
In the United States, RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association, has support groups across the country. You can find a listing at their website. SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support also has local support groups in the US. You can find a support group in your area on their website. In the UK, the Ectopic Pregnancy Trust and the Miscarriage Association both offer resources and counseling for women who have lost pregnancies. [25] X Research source You may find that online support forums also provide a space for you to talk about your feelings. The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust maintains online forums overseen by medical professionals where you can discuss your experience and share your feelings. [26] X Research source
Do not feel guilty about treating yourself with kindness. Ectopic pregnancy can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and you need time to recover.
Do not do anything high-impact or vigorous without consulting with your doctor.
Consider seeing a reproductive endocrinologist, who is an ob/gyn with subspecialty training in fertility treatment. You will need evaluation of the fallopian tubes, for example, and this kind of doctor is the best person to provide that. You can find a board certified REI at www. srei. org.
