Just wondering when your period returned?
I got the methotrexate only about a month ago. My hcg has not retuened to <5 yet. Im guessing it will come some time after hcg returns to 0.
Dear More2Come,
I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve suffered an ectopic pregnancy and loss. During these early days, it is incredibly important to look after yourself and allow time for yourself to heal both physically and emotionally.
It is very normal to bleed after treatment for ectopic pregnancy. The bleed that occurs in the first week or so of treatment for an ectopic pregnancy is not your first period. It is the bleed that occurs in response to falling hormones associated with the lost pregnancy. Some women find that bleeding and spotting after treatment for ectopic pregnancy can last up to six weeks. However, some women do not bleed after methotrexate (mtx) treatment.
Many women experience changes to their menstrual cycles after an ectopic pregnancy and it can take some time to settle back into a rhythm that is more usual for you. Periods can be heavier or lighter or more painful than before - as we are so individual there isn’t necessarily a set pattern. Doctors consider menstrual cycles of between 23-42 days to be within normal parameters and, if you find that you are not within these sorts of timeframes, it would be a good idea to speak to your doctors just to be on the safe side.
As you’ve had a methotrexate (mtx) shot, it is very important to continue with the blood work and following up with your doctor to ensure your hcg levels continue to fall. While, I do not want to alarm you, in terms of your hCG levels, you are not yet to levels that would be considered non-pregnant (below 5mIU/ml) and it is important to continue monitoring any symptoms you begin feeling and receive care if you begin feeling a change in symptoms, as sadly this could be sign of a rupture. Only once they are under 5mIU/ml you are considered no longer pregnant.
As well, you should avoid penetrative sex until after levels are non-pregnant. After levels are non-pregnant, you should take folic acid for 12 weeks before trying to conceive. This is important as shortage of folate could lead to neutral tube defects in a developing embryo and the supplement is needed for the healthy development of the embryo. It is not advised to take folic acid while undergoing MTX treatment.
I hope this provides some comfort, but as I’m not medically qualified, I always recommend checking in with your doctors if you have any concerns.
With good wishes,
Michele
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Thanks.