Other Symptoms

It can be possible to continue to “feel pregnant” from physical sensations sometimes two or three weeks after surgery and for longer after treatment with methotrexate or expectant management. Even after surgery, where the Fallopian tube is partially or completely removed, it can take some time for the hCG level (pregnancy hormone in the body) to drop which, along with the raised level of progesterone in your bloodstream, can make some feel pregnant even after they have lost their baby. These feelings of still being pregnant usually subside as the hCG levels drop.

Bloating is a reaction to the operation and the inflammation following this. The length of time it continues varies, but it should settle within six weeks. If it continues for longer it may be a sign that you have some ongoing infection and you should see your GP.

You may get sore breasts immediately after and for some weeks after the operation as they get used to not being pregnant. They may get sore again leading up to the next period.

Anything that compromises our immune system will leave us feeling tired. Surgery is a huge event for your body to cope with and, in the first weeks after your surgery, your immune system will be pouring all of its resources into healing your wounds and keeping infection out. During this time, women often report feeling very tired. Those treated with methotrexate can feel especially tired as the medicine depletes the body of one of the essential vitamins (folate) which helps maintain our energy levels. Taking it easy, eating small healthy meals often, and rest will all help to combat the tiredness and fatigue.

Some people take longer to recover than others. It depends on how much blood you lost and what treatment you had. The bigger the operation and the more blood lost, the longer it takes to feel yourself again. Usually, you should be fully recovered physically by six weeks, but in some people it may take longer. As long as you are making progress, you should not worry.