I was treated with MTX and was given the information about no folic acid until level are <5 but my right tube ruptured and I had to have surgery. I have no follow up so how will I know my levels are >5 do they drop quickly after the pregnancy is taken away? I have had a little bleed so guess my levels are dropping. I know I have to wait the 12 weeks as I had MTX but I now have no idea when to start counting. The consultant said I should wait a year after surgery, he saw the horror on my face and asked how old I was. I’ve just turned 39 he said in that case wait 3 months. It felt like he just picked a time out of the air if I’m honest. I want to do the right thing but time is not on my side and really can’t afford to wait longer then needed. Can I started taking folic acid now??
Dear JoUp,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss,
It is advised not to take folic acid suppliments following methotrexate injection as they can stop the methotraxate from working as well. Sadly you went on to have surgery which means you no longer need the methotraxate to be working in your system so you can start taking folic acid suppliments straight away.
It is still extremely important to now 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.
Sending much love,
Karen x
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Thankyou for the info I did think that was the case but wanted to double check. While I have no issue other my treatment the nurses on the ward didn’t seem to have a clue about the MTX and if the advice I was given still stands. I just want to give myself the best chance when the time comes xx