Period late, negative pregnancy tests

Main Board
1

Hi,

I had surgery for a really traumatic ectopic pregnancy in January and we have been trying again since March with no luck. I’m lucky enough to have one beautiful boy age 4 who was conceived with no complications, but also suffered a miscarriage between having my son and the ectopic. This cycle my period is a couple of days late, but all pregnancy tests are coming back negative. However I am experiencing crushing tiredness and fatigue which I’ve had during all previous pregnancies. With my previous ectopic I had what I thought was a period at the usual but very watery, and also had negative pregnancy tests so had no idea I was pregnant or anything was wrong until around 6 weeks when I collapsed when the tube began to rupture and I lost a lot of blood. A test only showed positive at that point. I am now terrified this late period could be the start of another ectopic, i.e. fertilisation has occurred but low hcg levels. I can’t bear the thought of waiting until I am potentially in pain again as I still feel quite traumatised by my previous experience and surgery. Would the GP be able to perform a blood test asap in the next few days to determine any HCG? I’m also due to start a new exciting job soon and unfortunately the constant worry and panic about ectopic pregnancy and also trying to maintain a ‘pregnant’ lifestyle just in case - i.e. not drinking, missing out on social occasions e.g. hen dos, no intensive exercise, avoiding hot baths, caffeine, not even dying hair etc is really starting to get me down and I feel like I can’t live a normal life. Sorry for the long post. Thanks

2

Dear Sarahvw,

I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss and the worrying time you are experiencing.

Following a negative pregnancy test, we would normally advise to wait and take a further test in a week’s time. Given your history however, I would recommend seeking medical advice. There is a blood test to check for hCG and this could be performed by your GP surgery. I would recommend reminding the Dr’s of your previous ectopic pregnancy including the fact that you previously had negative pregnancy tests and they will hopefully book you in for a blood test.

Whilst I do not wish to alarm you, I sadly have to remind you that if you experience any unusual bleeding, abdominal pain, shoulder tip pain, bladder or bowel problems or feel dizzy and unwell, please seek urgent medical advice.

Sending much love and warm hugs,

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.