Emergency contraception failed - ectopic pregnancy, back to the ER day 2 of methotrexate

On the 25th of September, my fiancé and had unprotected sex in the morning, i took the emergency pill within 2 hours to prevent pregnancy as our wedding is 6 months away and I didn’t want to be 6 months pregnant on the wedding. However, the pill failed.

Relevant dates:

21/10 - positive pregnancy (3 weeks on the pregnancy test, but doctor says embryo size is 5 weeks)

23/10 - passed a clot so I went to the ER to make sure everything was okay. I was under the impression I was having a miscarriage.

24/10 - confirmed EP than injected with methotrexate

After 20 hours in the ER, they confirmed EP. I was completely shocked, confused and distraught, I’m only 25 years, I have normal healthy, regular periods, never had any STD, only had 1 sexual partner, we were celibate for 10 months before 25/09. Obviously we didn’t plan it but it was safer for us to keep it seeing we were already engaged and our wedding day is booked, I wasn’t going to put my body through an abortion for a baby I was intending to have after the wedding day.

Anyways, I asked the doctor what could have caused it, she said a failed emergency contraception usually results in EP.

I received the injection methotrexate on the 24/10 at 5:45am. Today is day 2 and I’m having stabbing pains on my left lower abdominal and pain on my shoulder also bled bright red but very light bleeding.

Has anyone gone through these symptoms after day 2 of injection? I’m praying and begging God that it has erupted. I’m currently in the ER, but it’s so full and I’m so tired mentally and physically. I’ve prayed and cried and prayed again, just hoping for the best. All I have is hope right now.

I mean I’m praying it has NOT erupted**

Dear Faith-no-fear,

I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy loss. I understand what shock this must all be to you and I am sorry you are having to go through this.

I must first emphasise that this is not your fault. Many women, including myself have no risk factors for ectopic pregnancy but unfortunately experience it. Emergency contraception can be a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy but it does not always cause it.

It is normal to feel discomfort and heavier bleeding following treatment for ectopic pregnancy, however as pain is so subjective, if it is worsening and you are developing shoulder tip pain, I would advise seeking urgent medical advice, just to be on the safe side.

We will be here for you for as long as you need,

Sending much love,

Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust Registered Charity Number: 1071811 **************************************************************************

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