Period after ectopic

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1

Hi everyone,

Last week I was diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy which I have had no treatment and expectant management has seemed to be successful as HCG Levels continue to decrease. I have had slight pain in my left side and minimal brown spotting.

Today is 6 days after it all begun,

However I have woke up to what seems to be my period?

Is this okay, to have a period so soon?

Thanks!

2

Dear Biancajt,

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

To answer your question, the first bleed that occurs after ectopic pregnancy is not classed as a period. It is the body’s response to falling hormone levels because you are sadly no longer pregnant. The body expels the lining of the uterus that had built up in preparation for the pregnancy because it is no longer needed. This process involves vaginal bleeding - it can be clotty or like one of your usual periods and some women have bleeding/spotting for up to six weeks​. It is a good idea to keep a close eye on your bleeding and using sanitary pads helps judge this. If you are soaking more than a pad in an hour, you should get medical attention.

Your periods can take a while to re-establish and they can re-start once hCG levels have fallen below about 100mIU/mL and most women find that their period arrives some time in the four weeks after their hCG levels have fallen.

As a gentle reminder, we and many medical professionals advise waiting at least two menstrual cycles before trying to conceive again - and this is the same with expectant management treatment. This “wait” is to allow your cycles to resume and have a last menstrual period date from which to date a new pregnancy - important information for checking for ectopic pregnancy in the future. It also allows time for your emotions to surface and be worked through after your ordeal.

Sending much love,

Karen x

If we have been able to help you, are you able to help us with a small donation or by volunteering?

Further information is available at www.ectopic.org.uk

Email us at ept@ectopic.org.uk.

Our helpline is 020 7733 2653 (available Monday to Friday 10am - 4pm).

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.