Folate after 1 dose of methotrexate

So I’m from Australia and had one dose of methotrexate on 27th November. I’m sooooo confused as I saw my fertility dr today and she told me that I don’t need to wait and take folate for 12 weeks and can try again after 3 months from the methotrexate. She said that the folate isn’t all removed from your body after 1 shot unless it’s IV methotrexate or a much higher dose. She is very well known and I really don’t understand now. Also she said the folate blood test won’t tell me my proper level. She was so full on about the folate definitely being ok after just 1 dose and not IV or injected into tube or pregnancy etc. can anyone shed light on this info?

Hi AML,

I’m so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss, and I will do my best to answer your questions. As I’m not medically qualified, I can not speak to your specific situation. The guidance the Trust provides is based on UK Guidelines.

The current guidance says that during treatment of MTX, it is not recommended to take folic acid as there is interaction with the drug. However, once Doctors have confirmed the drug has worked, you can take folic acid. After levels non-pregnant, the Trust recommends taking folic acid for 12 weeks before trying to conceive. This is important as a shortage of folate could lead to neural tube defects in a developing embryo, and the supplement is needed for the embryo’s healthy development.

Please take good care of yourself, and know that we are here for as long as you need.

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


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 support line: 020 7733 2653. We are able to provide support in multiple languages including British Sign Language.

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