How long after methotrexate (and zero hcg) will the mass disappear? ;(

Main Board
1

Hi,

I am really stressed, concerned and upset about the length of time it may take for the mass (baby, I guess) to completely disappear/dissolve.

I had one methotrexate shot at (highest) hcg of 490, which rapidly dropped and by day 12 the urine test was negative (meaning hcg zero?).

However, the mass inside is not reducing in size and even slightly increased (currently at 22mm x 42mm x 12mm)!

I was told that it may take as long as 6 months (or potentially even forever?) to disappear. Additionally, all that can be done is scans every 6 weeks! I am completely destroyed with this idea and don’t know how to live. I have gained a considerable amount of weight and I really want to exercise but am scared to do that (which leads to more stress and even more overeating and emotional destruction…).

How long will it take to completely dissolve?

How long does the risk of rupture remain after HCG drops to non pregnant levels?

What is the risk of heavy exercise, heavy lifting and travelling? Should I start taking any vitamins/supplements to fix the damage from methotrexate (I am not planning a pregnancy so folate 12 weeks before is not applicable).

Just really not sure how to live and mentally survive that 6 wait (and even worse - to hear that it is still there!)…

Really sad that there is pretty much no literature or material at all on this last (and what seems the longest) stage in the process… :cry:

2

Dear ectooicalone,

I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy loss,

You are right in that there is little research evidence into ectopic pregnancy, even more so.To do with how long it can take for masses to resolve. Women in the UK aren’t routinely scanned following tread so most don’t know if the mass has resolved fully or how long this takes.

If your hCG levels have reached pre pregnancy levels, you will be ok to exercise and travel as there is no risk of rupture. You do mention however that the mass is growing in size. Unfortunately I am not medically trained and am unsure why this should be, so I would suggest asking questions on what it is safe to do to your medical team.

If you are not planning on conceiving just get you do not have to take and supplements, I would suggest taking pre-pregnancy supplements which would include folic acid for 3 months before you ttc.

Having an ectopic pregnancy can feel very isolating. These boards are filled with people with similar experiences, you have friends here who understand. Please continue to lean on us for as long as you need,

Sending much love,

Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811

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

During the coronavirus outbreak, The EPT team is still working hard to provide crucial information and support to women and families experiencing ectopic pregnancy as quickly and efficiently as we can.

If we have been able to help you, are you able to help us with a small donation or by volunteering or fundraising?

Further information is available at ectopic.org.uk

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 here: https://mailchi.mp/986bdd6091ee/ectopic-matters

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