Hi
I was looking for some advice. I discovered that my pregnancy was ectopic just over two weeks ago. I was kept in hospital for three days when they decided that Methotrexate was the best form of treatment. I had this treatment and was discharged. Two days later I was rushed back to hospital for emergency surgery to have my Fallopian tube removed due to internal bleeding and extreme pain. I had surgery one week ago.
My question is can I now start taking folic acid as I know Methotrexate interferes with this and you shouldn’t take it when having this treatment. Is it ok to take it now as I had my tube removed. Does that make my pregnancy hormone levels drop?
Many thanks
Dear Jade1985,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss.
As you have had surgery following your methotraxate injection, you can start taking folic acid as soon as you want to. You do not have to wait for your hCG levels to be back at pre pregnancy levels. It is not common for hCG levels to be routinely carried out after salpingectomy (removal of the fallopian tube)
As you have had a methotraxate injection however, it I strongly advised that you 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.
It maybe of some comfort to know that the chances of a further ectopic after a first in UK is 10%. So that’s 90% chance of the embryo being in right place next time.
Sending much love and warm hugs,
Karen x
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