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Sleep Problems

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Meggers44
Posts: 11
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2019 5:28 am

Sleep Problems

Post by Meggers44 »

I had an emergency laparotomy to remove my pregnancy and right tube 3 weeks ago. I was about 7wks and didn't know I was pregnant. Physical pain is okay and I'm managing with neoproxen and the occasional tylenol. Since then I have been struggling emotionally more than I thought I would.

My main problem now is lack of sleep. Lack of sleep is making me into even more of an emotional wreck. Using melotonian or staying up really late until I'm exhausted is the only way I can fall asleep and then I wake up throughout the night and cannot stay asleep. I'm normally a side sleeper and it hurts too much to sleep on my side. My legs are jumpy and I know overthinking is not helping. Sometimes I'm shaky or my shoulders ache from anxiety and stress. Normally working out would help me with this, but I'm not allowed to work out for 6 weeks. I bought a basic body pillow, I've tried the couch and two different beds, used essential oils, but nothing is helping. My husband suggested sedatives, but I'd like to avoid that if possible. What else can I try?

cka
Posts: 6
Joined: Wed Jan 01, 2020 9:35 am

Re: Sleep Problems

Post by cka »

Hi Meggers44,

Sorry to hear you are struggling with sleep, so hard to add this to everything else you have been though and definitely heightens emotions. I am nearly 3 weeks post op to remove my left tube and 6 week ectopic.

I have been struggling with sleep too, finding it hard to get and stay comfortable. I have been waking from sore back pain and having twitches in my legs and stomach in the night.

Like you I sleep on my side, I read somewhere about using pillows to prop yourself up. I have one under my knees, one under each side of my torso/hips and a gradient of higher pillows for my head and shoulders to mimic the hospital bed. For the last two nights I have done this and although you can't move much, it has been much better.

I also read about making a routine of being up and about in the house/sofa, going for a short walk and then taking myself back to bed in the daytime for a rest and sometimes I have napped which has been good.

I have also been trying to do some very light stretches for my arms and legs as finding I am tight/sore as unable to do my usual classes/swimming.

I hope you are able to find something that works for you.

EPT Host 20
Posts: 3155
Joined: Thu May 31, 2012 10:58 pm

Re: Sleep Problems

Post by EPT Host 20 »

Dear Meggers44,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss,
Experiencing an ectopic pregnancy is a huge ordeal and you are in the early stages of recovery. Your body needs time to heal from your surgery which is in itself a gruelling task. You have also had to process the loss of your baby and been through an immense rollercoaster of emotions - all of this will take time to come to terms with.

You should take it very easily for about six weeks after surgery. Your body will be using its energies to heal internally. It is normal to feel physically and emotionally exhausted during this time and please do be kind to yourself. Recovery can take time and some days will be better than others, one day you maybe ok and the next you maybe in discomfort or more emotional. This is perfectly usual and the healing process will go back and forth in this way for however long you need. It is important to listen to your body's signals and pain and feeling tired are your body's signs to tell you to rest. We suggest keeping a healthy balanced diet, drinking lots of water and resting. Once your wounds have healed, very gentle exercise such as a short walk can help, but please do take this slowly.

Stress can manifest itself in many ways including affecting your eating, sleeping habits and wellbeing - this could be contributing to your sleeplessness and I would suggest speaking to your GP or a medical professional, if you are starting to suffer ill effects from sleep deprivation.
Many women experience feelings of isolation after an ectopic pregnancy - I did, too. It is a frightening experience. Like you, I reached out to the Trust for support and we will be here for you to lean on for as long as you need.

We at the Trust believe that talking through what happened and your emotions as and when you can helps the healing process. We operate a helpline service and there's no pressure whatsoever but if you would ever like the opportunity to speak over the phone to someone who has been through a similar experience, do feel free to call, details are below. We can take things at your pace entirely and you are free to ask any questions that are on your mind. You can talk about the ordeal you have been through and express your feelings to vent and let off some steam. We can exchange emails too, if you prefer that route. We'll simply be here for you, however you wish and for as long as you wish.

In addition, you can ask to see a GP at your practice and ask them to explore ways in which you can get help and this can include referrals for "talking therapies" or counselling. We have information on our website about finding counselling services.

If you are in the UK, the charity Mind may also be of assistance. They have local centres and support groups and can offer services on a means-tested basis or sometimes free. You can find your local centre following this link if that may be useful too: http://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/local-minds/

Above all, be kind to yourself and allow time to grieve, to heal both physically and emotionally. Sending much love,
Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
Registered Charity Number: 1071811

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Kay39
Posts: 9
Joined: Wed Jan 08, 2020 5:44 pm

Re: Sleep Problems

Post by Kay39 »

Dear Meggers44,
Greetings,
Firstly, i am really sorry to hear your story, but please just know that we are all here for you and your not alone here.
Secondly, i had such sleep problems myself a while back and do not want to go for anything heavy. A friend recommended Nytol tabs, it’s an antihistamine tablet that is used for sleeping problems, and helps quite well.
Please feel free to check out the link below and I hope you find the right solution for your problem.
[Link removed per Trust policy]

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