Having an ectopic pregnancy can be scary, stressful, and confusing all at once, especially if you’re not sure how to handle the situation on your own. There are plenty of things you can do to help yourself through an ectopic pregnancy, and these seven tips will help you do just that.
Get as much rest as possible
The most important thing you can do is to get as much rest as possible. This will help your body and mind recover from the trauma of the ectopic pregnancy. You may also want to consider taking a painkiller if it’s causing you discomfort, but don’t take one that is stronger than what your doctor has prescribed. If you have had an operation to remove the ectopic pregnancy, then follow any instructions your doctor gives you about when it’s safe to go back home and what kind of activity you should be doing.
Drink lots of fluids
The first step to helping yourself through ectopic pregnancy is to drink lots of fluids. This will help you feel less dehydrated and give your body the energy it needs to heal. Drink at least 64 ounces (eight cups) of fluids a day. The next tip is to take prenatal vitamins, which are important for keeping your body healthy and strong during this difficult time.
The third thing is to talk with your doctor if you’re having difficulty controlling pain or have any other symptoms like dizziness, bleeding or changes in vision, nausea or vomiting.
Eat healthy foods
Eating healthy foods can help you feel better. It’s important to remember that even if you’re feeling nauseous, it’s okay to eat small meals and snacks throughout the day, every day. Try not to skip breakfast and lunch, which will help keep your blood sugar levels steady all day long.
- Drink lots of water
- Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Consume whole grains
- Eat lean proteins
- Stay away from greasy or fried foods
- Limit caffeine
- Include protein bars in your diet
Avoid alcohol and caffeine
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can raise your heart rate. Rest when possible. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to take over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen to help reduce pain or fever.
You may also be advised to take ibuprofen or naproxen (Aleve) to help alleviate cramping and pelvic pain. If you have been bleeding heavily, talk with your healthcare provider about taking iron pills because you’re at risk of developing anemia if your menstrual periods have stopped completely. Avoid hot tubs, saunas, or any other type of heated water until after your ectopic pregnancy has been treated and is no longer life threatening due to the increased risk of having a ruptured fallopian tube from the sudden increase in temperature .
Take your vitamins
It’s important to take your vitamins during pregnancy, but it can be hard when you’re dealing with the stress and anxiety that come with having an ectopic pregnancy. Here are some tips on how to help yourself through this difficult time:
- Take your prenatal vitamin every day.
- Eat healthy food.
- Do something kind for yourself every day, like reading a book, getting a massage or going to get your hair done.
- Spend time with friends and family who care about you.
- Exercise as much as you can handle, even if it’s just walking around the block a few times.
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids each day.
Exercise
It is important to stay active throughout pregnancy in order to keep your body healthy and strong. But, when you have an ectopic pregnancy, it can be difficult to find exercises that will not put pressure on your abdomen and cause pain. Try not to over do as it can turn to be risk factors of ectopic pregnancy
Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and bend over from the waist as far as possible without bending at the knees. Hold this position for up to 10 seconds before straightening up again.
Sit down on a mat or carpeted floor with both legs stretched out in front of you. Lean back onto your hands until you feel a slight stretch in the hips and upper thighs, then hold for 10 seconds before returning to a sitting position.
Seek support
Learning that you have an ectopic pregnancy can be overwhelming. Friends and family may not know what to say or do, so it’s important to reach out to those who are supportive during this time. Here are some ways of coping and seeking support:
- Find a support group online and in your area, go with a friend or partner, or ask your doctor if they can refer someone. You’ll find people who will understand exactly what you’re going through because they’ve been there themselves.
- Consider joining a Facebook group that can provide emotional support as well as advice on how to deal with the physical symptoms of ectopic pregnancy.