Is this normal..?!

Preparing For Your Next Pregnancy
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In early July I suffered from an ectopic and had expected management which lasted approx 2 weeks. After my HCG levels were at 0, I had a bleed approx 7 days later, which lasted the same length of time as a period, but I presume wasn’t an actual period… Then 28 Days later I had a period which was also normal length of time for me. It’s now 34 days since that last period and I am concerned. I’m usually like absolute clockwork with my menstrual cycle. I also have back pain now which is new today… so gutted as we were hoping I’d have a normal period this month and we could start trying again.

I’m worried something more sinister is going on and don’t know what to do. I called my doctor last week and mentioned I still have some pain in my ectopic side but they were quite dismissive but I genuinely feel like something is wrong and my period may never come. Am I just being over dramatic and this is normal or should I have gone back to my 28 days?! Any help would be so appreciated!

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Dear kateshope1992,

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

Periods can take a few months to settle into a rhythm that is more normal for us, mine did too.

Periods can be delayed for a number of reasons including stress or even (as surprising as it may sound) excessive exercise or weight loss. Doctors normally consider menstrual cycles of between 23-42 days to be within normal parameters. If it gets to more than 42 days since the first day of your last menstrual period, please talk to your GP who maybe able to assist you further.

Experiencing some pain after an ectopic pregnancy is normal as your body has been through a great deal over the last few months. The pain may be your body may be preparing to ovulate and many women experience ovulation pain when they did not before their ectopic pregnancy - including myself. You also may have a heightened perception because of the sad loss that you have had to go through.

If the pain persists, I suggest keeping a pain diary noting when the pain appears, the intensity on a scale of 0-10 and anything that helps the pain eg resting, hot water bottle, paracetamol etc. Visiting your doctors with this information helps them to assess how best to manage your symptoms.

Having said this, if there is a chance that you could be pregnant due to a late period, I would advise taking a pregnancy test and if your pain is worsening, seek medical advice.

Sending much love,

Karen x

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I will pray for your safety and guidance. Be strong!

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