I had an ectopic pregnancy between Christmas and new year and got treated by methotrexate by mid jan my levels were 0. 39th jan came my period roughly the same time as usual. I am still currently awaiting my next period. Have taken a pregnancy test and its negative. If we have conceived I know it’s either mid Feb or 1st weekend in March.
Is this my body just learning its new cycle or have I tested to early?
Any advice would be much appreciated
Dear Jen18,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss,
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 becomes longer than this please talk to your Dr.
As a gentle reminder, with 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.
Sending much love,
Karen x
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