Abdominal Pulsations Following Bilateral Salpingectomy
A 29-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 190 pounds, presents the following medical history: she experiences anxiety, depression, pre-diabetes, and has been diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Current medications include Lexapro at a dosage of 10mg, Wellbutrin at 300mg, and post-operative care involves taking ibuprofen 800mg every eight hours. Two days ago, on July 28th, I underwent a bilateral salpingectomy along with the insertion of an IUD. The day following my surgery, I began to experience a noticeable pulsing sensation in my abdomen, just above my navel. This sensation is intermittent and primarily occurs when I am in a reclined position. I find myself worrying about possibly having an abdominal aortic aneurysm, although there are no external signs visible on my body—I can merely feel this sensation internally. The surgical incisions were made at my belly button and at specific points: midline just above the pubic area and the left lower abdomen. Since the operation, I have experienced minimal discomfort. During my hospital stay, my blood pressure readings were slightly elevated, falling within the range of 130s/80s. I do not measure my blood pressure on a daily basis, but I suspect it tends to be somewhat elevated, especially since I have gained a significant amount of weight over the last two years. It would certainly ease my mind if medical professionals could reassure me that my concerns are merely a result of paranoia or anxiety. 🤪
Answers (1)
7/30/2025, 4:20:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about new sensations in your abdomen following your recent surgery. The pulsing sensation you're experiencing could likely be related to normal post-operative changes rather than something serious like an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Explanation: After surgeries like a bilateral salpingectomy, your body undergoes various changes as it heals. The pulsing sensation above your navel can be attributed to several benign factors, including:
- Normal Healing: Your body is adjusting after surgery, and some sensations may arise as healing progresses.
- Increased Awareness: Post-operative anxiety can heighten your awareness of bodily sensations, making you more prone to notice even normal pulsations.
- Gas or Bowel Activity: After surgery, gastrointestinal activity might increase, leading to sensations that feel like pulsating.
Your blood pressure readings are also something to keep an eye on, particularly regarding your concerns about overall health, especially given your metabolic syndrome and weight concerns.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when the pulsing occurs, its intensity, and any accompanying symptoms (like pain or changes in bowel habits).
- Gentle Movement: Try light stretching or walking to help decrease tension and promote healing in the abdominal area.
- Manage Anxiety: Consider stress-reducing activities such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mild physical activity to help ease your anxiety about the sensations.
- Consult a Professional: If the pulsing sensation persists, worsens, or is accompanied by severe pain or other concerning symptoms, reaching out to your healthcare provider is essential for reassurance and potential evaluation.
It's normal to have concerns, especially after a significant procedure, but knowing these sensations often are part of recovery can help provide some comfort. Take care, and stay in tune with your body's responses!
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