Scared of an Ectopic Pregnancy

Maryanne Nguyo, a banker, was devastated when the doctor told her that she had an ectopic pregnancy. Things became more complicated when he added that she had a threatened abortion. All these terms were new to her and she had to search for information in order to understand the implications. She shares her experience with BabyLove Network.

I visited the hospital after experiencing continuous pains on my lower abdomen. It felt more like cramps but was more painful. The doctor advised me to do a pregnancy test. I had not thought of pregnancy but that day, it occured to me that I could actually be pregnant. I was happy at the prospect and I prayed that the results turned out positive.

However, after the doctor examined me, he said that I had an ectopic pregnancy (a condition in which a fertilized egg is implanted outside the uterus). I was shocked because I had always associated ectopic pregnancies with women who have had reversal of a tubal ligation.

The doctor sent me for an ultrasound scan which turned out normal. He then performed a blood test again which confirmed his earlier diagnosis: an ectopic pregnancy! I was instructed to undergo a trans vaginal scan (TVS), which is a vivid examination of the pelvic organs. This would give more accurate results and hopefully spare me the confusion and agony.

However, the scan only revealed a spot which the doctor explained was a gestational sac and that I had an early intra uterine pregnancy (IUP). He further told me that my pregnancy had developed a condition known as ‘threatened abortion’.

Since I did not know anything about threatened abortions, I started searching for information from the internet. I got to understand that in the event that things worsened, my pregnancy could self-terminate. I cried every night fearing that it would actually happen to me. At one time I noticed some spotting and believed that the baby was coming out! I was so terrified that I went to see my doctor immediately.

I had changed doctors because I did not like the services offered at the hospital where I went for my first scan. My gynaecologist gave me progesterone to support the pregnancy and assured me that everything was fine.

I went for a total of six scans and the fourth one revealed that my baby was healthy.

I did not have any particular cravings or morning sickness, though I recall throwing up when I was taking supplements which the doctor had advised me would relieve muscle cramps. I also developed heartburn in the night but I found relief in taking milk. I love milk and I took two packets every day.

I also got irritated when a person gave me unsolicited advice about what I should or should not eat. I believe that every pregnancy is unique and mine was not like another person’s.

My EDD was 12th January but I gave birth exactly a month before. My baby boy, Lewis Kidi, was born at exactly 1.33 pm weighing 2.1 kilograms.

END: PG 11 /20