Okay, will just try to write everything down. Hope it makes sense!
When I was scanned at 14 weeks, my cervix was 2.5cm. The consultant advised us to go for the stitch as they are more effictive and have fewer risks when done in advance rather than as an emergency. We agreed and I was booked in a couple of days later. Valentines day actually, go me!
I arrived in the ward early, 8am. I think they were planning to do my operation earlier but emergencies kept cropping up so it was 3pm before I went into theatre. I didn't really see anyone in the morning, just talked to the doctors once or twice to make sure I understood what they were going to do and the risks involved. I decided to have a general anesthetic, because I was really, really nervous about the whole thing! I had also had a GA before and know I recover quite quickly from them. The doctors assured me there was no difference in risk to the baby from either kind of anesthetic so it would all be down to the mother's choice.
I think I was under for about 30-40mins and I did come round feeling very emotional. I think I had a panic attack actually, it was really hard being back in the same hospital that my son had died in so recently. But the staff are so used to dealing with frightened women, they were wonderful. And if you have a spinal instead you might not get the same odd emotions, I think GA does funny things to your brain!
They like to keep you lying flat for a few hours after the procedure, and they will keep checking up on your pain and bleeding levels. I was actually really surprised at how little pain I was in. Like moderate period pain, but without the cramping if you see what I mean? I only needed paracetamol for a couple of days and even then if I couldn't get any for whatever reason, it would have been managable. There was also a lot less bleeding than I expected. There was a small "flow" of red blood the first time I stood up which I was worried about, in case it got worse, but that was really all there was. A few days of brown spotting after that.
I stayed in the hospital overnight, but again I think that was only because I was done so late in the day. The next day they checked how my bleeding was, and how much pain I was in, and were happy to discharge me. I am also on Cyclogest (progesterone) pesseries as there is some evidence they can help keep your cervix closed. Could be worth talking to your Dr about?
I had the op on Thursday, was out of the hospital on Friday and took Monday and Tuesday off work. I would have probably gone back on Monday if I worked in an office, but my job is quite physical and I just felt I needed a couple more days. I have also really cut down on the amount I am lifting. Also, no sex after a stitch sadly!
For a few weeks afterwards I did feel a bit odd. Every little twinge was terrifying and I was frightened to cough or sneeze! But since about 19 weeks or so I have been feeling really good. No pain or anything. They checked my cervix 2 weeks after the stitch (which I think is normal procedure) and had a quick look at my 20 week scan because I asked. I have another scan tomorrow so I will ask them to look again I think! And try to find out how often they will check and come back and tell you :)
Being pregnant after a loss is very frightening, there is a really supportive thread here for women in this situation which has been a life saver for me. I can send you a link if you like? You would be very welcome.
Let me know if there is anything else I can tell you! Sorry this has turned into a bit of an essay 