Early scan

Pregnant After Ectopic Pregnancy
1

Hi there,

I had an ectopic in December 2020resulting in my left tube being removed. We have been trying for a baby since and finally got the joyful double lines this months. I’m currently 4+2. It’s feels different this time and also feeling nauseous but still extremely anxious.

I finally got hold of the midwife today to organise things and she asked me to organise my early scan at 7 weeks. This seems too late to me??? I was advised by the doc to have one at 4 weeks after my surgery, but from reading the comments on here from you lovely ladies, it seems 6 week is the best time. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

2

F10NA:
Hi there,

I had an ectopic in December 2020resulting in my left tube being removed. We have been trying for a baby since and finally got the joyful double lines this months. I’m currently 4+2. It’s feels different this time and also feeling nauseous but still extremely anxious.

I finally got hold of the midwife today to organise things and she asked me to organise my early scan at 7 weeks. This seems too late to me??? I was advised by the doc to have one at 4 weeks after my surgery, but from reading the comments on here from you lovely ladies, it seems 6 week is the best time. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

3

Dear F10NA,

Whispered congratulations on your pregnancy,

After an ectopic pregnancy, finding we are pregnant again can be a mix of emotions and I can completely understand your feeling nervous. It is perfectly normal to feel scared after the ordeal you have endured. I also felt twinges and aches after my ectopic pregnancy, particularly when I next felt pregnant. My mind started racing and I was only really able to relax to some degree after my early scan. It is a nerve-wracking time and you have friends here who understand how you are feeling.

Speaking from UK medical practice and standards, usually doctors carry out an internal transvaginal scan at around six weeks with subsequent pregnancies after an ectopic. This is because there is a reasonable chance of seeing an embryo around this six week mark.

NICE who produce evidence-based guidance and advice for health practitioners in the UK, advise that woman should have an ultrasound scan arranged at 6–7 weeks to establish the location and viability of the pregnancy.

We advise contacting your local EPU, reminding them of your ectopic pregnancy and booking an appointment. If you are unable to self refer, contact your GP who will be able to do this for you.

I hope this helps,

Sending much love and positive thoughts,

Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811

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

If the information provided here or through the EPT website has helped you, you can donate towards our support services, volunteer, or fundraise to raise awareness.

Further information is available on our website.

Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk

We provide a call-back helpline service: 020 7733 2653

Take a look at our newsletters and subscribe to our mailing list.

Detailed medical information can be found on our website. Please remember online medical information is NO SUBSTITUTE for expert medical advice from your own health care team

4

Thank you Karen.

It certainly is helpful having a wonderful group of friends who understand the anxiety you face having gone through such a terrible experience.

Today I have spoken with the EPU and they have agree to scan me in 2 weeks time where I will be 6+3 weeks.

Keeping everything crossed and trying to be optimistic.

Hoping to send a positive update in a couple of weeks.

Thank you all once again and sending prayers to all on the forum.

Xx