Bleeding after reaching Zero (methotrexate)

Hey,

I finally reached zero on Monday. I was treated with one dose of methotrexate, I have been bleeding on and off for the past 11 weeks. I am still bleeding now, it’s slightly heavier. Would this be classed as my first cycle? Is it ‘normal’ to bleed for this long?

I’m so confused about what my body is doing and I’m just desperate to start living as normally as I can again. Any advice or hearing similar experiences would be appreciated. Thanks! X

Hi Katejones32,

I’m so sorry you are going through this worrying time. I can empathize with the desire to get back to normal, especially as you have been going through this for 11 weeks.

It is very possible for this bleeding to be your period. The first bleed after treatment for an ectopic pregnancy is not your first period. It is the bleed that occurs in response to falling hormones associated with the lost pregnancy. Some women find that bleeding and spotting after treatment for ectopic pregnancy can last up to six weeks. In your case, it has lasted longer.

However, many women experience changes to their menstrual cycles after an ectopic pregnancy and it can take some time to settle back into a rhythm that is more usual for you. Periods can be heavier or lighter or more painful than before - as we are so individual there isn’t necessarily a set pattern.

This change to cycles is one reason the Trust encourages women to wait at least three months or two full cycles before trying to conceive, as it gives time to regulate the body and to spot any new patterns.

It can feel frustrating to wait for your body to find its new rhythm, but it’s important to remember how much it has been through physically and emotionally. It’s easier to say than to do sometimes, but keep being gentle to yourself in this recovery. There is no set timeframe, but we are here for you throughout.

With good wishes,

Michele

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811

Ectopic pregnancy patient information suite: Highly Commended in the 2019 BMA Patient Information Awards


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