Hi I had an ectopic pregnancy earlier this year and my left tube was removed. I was told I would get an early scan assumed 6 weeks but after chasing my GP and hospital I have been told they will not scan until after 8 weeks!!!
I was quite calm until I found this out today and now I am panicking as my husband will be away and I am scared. I am 6+4 so not much longer to wait but still this is now freaking me out to be honest.
I don’t know what else I can do other than wait.
Dear Steph1988,
Whispered congratulations on your pregnancy and I am sorry to hear of the worrying time you are going through.
We would always recommend an early pregnancy scan at around 6 weeks. If you are in the UK, NICE, national guidance also supports this- the extract below is from the NICE guidance, I have added the link to the document.
“Advise the woman that she should inform her GP as soon a possible about any future pregnancy so that an ultrasound scan can be arranged at 6–7 weeks to establish the location and viability of the pregnancy”
https://cks.nice.org.uk/ectopic-pregnancy#!scenario:1
If they insist on waiting until 8 weeks for a scan, i would suggest asking why they are going against NICE guidance. You could also discuss this with the Patient Advice Liaison Service (PALS) who deal with matters of complaints.
I am so sorry you are having to go through such a worrying time. Although, I do not wish to alarm you, I do have to advise that if you experience any bleeding, abdominal pain, shoulder tip pain, have any bladder or bowel problems or feel dizzy and unwell to seek urgent medical advice by attending your local A&E.
Sending much love and positive thoughts,
Karen x
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Further information is available at http://www.ectopic.org.uk
Email us at ept@ectopic.org.uk.
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Thank you Karen.
I am waiting for a call back today regarding a scan I have gone directly to the hospital trust now. That information is really helpful.
Steph
Hi Steph,
I know this post is from some months ago but I’m finding myself in the same position as you were in (I had an ectopic with loss of right tube in December) with being pregnant again but only offered an 8week scan with new NHS region (where old one always does 6+2). Were you able to get earlier scan in the end or did you have to wait until 8 weeks? If you did get earlier how did you manage that? Sorry for all the questions! Thanks!