Period late/missed

Preparing For Your Next Pregnancy
1

I had an ectopic pregnancy that ruptured at 8 weeks in Jan 2021. I had no symptoms of ectopic prior to the rupture, I tested positive on pregnancy test at 4 weeks, and had all the usual pregnancy symptoms so it came as a surprise and has been devastating.

I have since had 3 normal cycles, 28 days. We have been having unprotected sex since my second period. This month I have missed my period altogether. I have tested 4 times with pregnancy tests and all came back negative.

I am now worried sick this could mean infertility, I have had no usual reasons for missing period, ie, stress, weight loss/gain, I don’t have thyroid issues or pcos.

I am 35 next month and given the increased risk of ectopic at that age and the increased risk from previous ectopic I am worried this could be an ectopic pregnancy and I won’t be able to pick it up soon enough to reduce risk of rupture.

I’m so upset and want to call my doctor but I also think they might say wait and see or think I’m being over anxious about something that could be nothing.

I also think I’m scared to know the outcome.

I don’t even know how to bring the subject up with any family, friends or even with the doctors receptionist, what do I say?? My partner says it will be OK and just get checked out and not to think about it but that’s easier said than done!

I just needed to put my thoughts down in writing hoping it will help but also if anyone has any experience that might help?

Thanks

2

Dear Becky,

I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss and of your recent worries.

Periods can take a few months to settle into a rhythm that is more normal for us, mine did too.

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 you have not had your expected period, we would advise retesting, using an early morning urine sample in a further week.

As you have been TTC, while I do not want to alarm you, if you experience any pain or unusual bleeding, please do get medical attention as soon as you can. If it has been 42 days since the first day of your last menstrual period, please talk to your GP who maybe able to assist you further.

Do not be worried about speaking to your GP, If it helps you can say you sought advice from this forum and they have given The advice as above.

Sending much love,

Karen x

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811

Ectopic pregnancy patient information suite: Highly Commended in the 2019 BMA Patient Information Awards

During the coronavirus outbreak, The EPT team is still working hard to provide crucial information and support to women and families experiencing ectopic pregnancy as quickly and efficiently as we can.

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

Further information is available at ectopic.org.uk

Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk

We provide a call-back helpline service: 020 7733 2653

Take a look at our newsletters and subscribe to our mailing list here: https://mailchi.mp/986bdd6091ee/ectopic-matters

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