I’m from Australia. I had my ectopic In November and am almost at my 3 month post methotrexate. I was told to take folate from 0 but am wondering about this extra 12 weeks for folate to rise again. If I get a blood test to check my folate level and it comes back fine, do I still need to wait the extra 3 months after hitting 0 for folate reasons? It seems very odd that people say you still have to wait another 3 months if bloods show natural folate level is ok? Please help xxx
I am so sorry to hear that you have suffered an ectopic pregnancy and loss. I’m not medically qualified to answer your specific question. However, 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
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In addition to waiting for folate levels to rise, my doctors (in Canada) had also stated that MTX can have an impact on cell structure in your body (including your eggs) up to 3 months post injection. They had told me there’s not a lot of data on it but that’s what the mice studies suggest… not all of them seemed as concerned with that risk. I’m not a doctor either, so really just relaying the info I had received at the time in case you find it helpful.
Sorry for your EP and loss. I hope the future brings you better things. Take care! Cam