Treating an Ectopic Pregnancy With Surgery: Care Instructions

Overview

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg grows outside of the uterus. In a normal pregnancy, the fertilized egg grows inside the uterus.

In most ectopic pregnancies, the egg grows in a fallopian tube. This is also called a tubal pregnancy. Sometimes the egg grows in an ovary or some other place in the belly. But this is rare. An ectopic pregnancy never becomes a normal pregnancy and birth.

You had surgery to treat your ectopic pregnancy. This was done to prevent dangerous problems. After your surgery, you may have vaginal bleeding that's like a period. It may last for about a week. You may need a few weeks to recover. And you may also need to have follow-up blood tests.

You should be able to have a normal pregnancy in the future. But you may have a higher risk for more ectopic pregnancies. Tell your doctor right away if you get pregnant again.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Get plenty of rest. You may be more tired than normal for a few weeks.
• Try to walk each day. Start by walking a little more than you did the day before. Bit by bit, increase the amount you walk.
• Avoid moving quickly or lifting anything heavy until your doctor tells you it is safe to do your normal activities.
• Ask your doctor when you can have vaginal sex again.
• Your doctor might want you to use sanitary pads if you have vaginal bleeding. Using pads makes it easier to keep track of your bleeding. You may use tampons during your next period. It should start in 3 to 6 weeks.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• Take care of your incision. If you have strips of tape on the cut (incision) the doctor made, leave the tape on for a week or until it falls off. Wash the area daily with warm, soapy water, and pat it dry. Change the bandage every day.
• Pay attention to your feelings. If you're sad and it's not getting any easier, talk with your doctor or a counselor.
• Talk to your doctor if you want to try to get pregnant soon. The doctor can tell you when it's safe to do so.
• If you don't want to get pregnant, ask your doctor about birth control. It's safe to use birth control during your recovery. It's possible to get pregnant again before your next period starts.