I recieved 2 doses of methotrexate, the second was 2 weeks ago as of sunday. Today, my beta was below 5 but I’m having some cramping. Im not doubled over in pain but definitely super uncomfortable. Is this normal? Nothing can rupture at this point right? Could it be my period coming?
Also, now that my beta is below 5, whats the protocol for sex & alcohol?
Dear Jbella,
I’m so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy loss,
It is good to hear that your hCG level has reduced to below 5, this means that you are discharged from your SPY and there are no restrictions on what you drink or eat now. You can also resume sexual intercourse as normal however we advise that you do not get pregnant so you may need additional contraception. If trying to conceive following Methotrexate, you should wait until your hCG levels have fallen to below 5mIU/mL (your doctor will advise you when this is through blood tests) and then take a folic acid supplement for 12 weeks before you try to conceive. This is because the Methotrexate may have reduced the level of folate in your body which is needed to ensure a baby develops healthily. The Methotrexate is metabolised quickly but it can affect the quality of your cells, including those of your eggs and the quality of your blood for up to three months after it has been given. The medicine can also affect the way your liver works and so you need to give your body time to recover properly before a new pregnancy is considered. A shortage of folate could result in a greater chance of a baby having a neural tube defect such as hare lip, cleft palate, or even spina bifida or other NT defects. This is why the “wait” and then taking folic acid for 12 weeks before trying to conceive is so important.
Many women feel pain and experience bleeding once their hCG has fallen to pre-pregnancy levels, please note that if you do start bleeding soon, this is not classed as your first period but a bleed as your pregnancy hormones have dropped.
I should also say that you shouldn’t be at risk of rupture now, however as pain is so subjective, if it is worsening or you are concerned, please seek medical advice.
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
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