Periods after methotrexate

I had an ectopic pregnancy in my right tube in April and was treated with methotrexate. My HCG went down to 10 16th May and I was discharged. I didn’t have a period until 18th July, it was medium flow, lasted 5 days and was pretty normal. I then had 3 days of spotting/pink CM on 6th August. I thought this could have been implantation bleeding as were are ttc again but all tests were negative however I was getting peak results of CB advanced digital so thought maybe if could be late ovulation bleeding. I haven’t had a period again since July but do feel cramping or nigling in my pelvic area most days. I do suffer with IBS so it could be IBS cramps. I am now on cycle day 45! Overall I am wondering if anyone else had long cycles after their ectopic and did they become “normal” again with time? I’m very stressed as all I want is to converge again so I know the stress does not help!

Hi Jessicaroseox,

I’m so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss. I’ll do my best to help answer your questions.

The first period can occur up to ten weeks after the ectopic pregnancy although it may not be like your normal menstrual period. It might be heavier or lighter and it may be more painful than expected. The period after that is usually more like your usual pattern. However, although there is no medical reason for it, women do very often report some irregularity in their cycle for several months after an ectopic pregnancy.

According to a study for women who had methotrexate treatment for an ectopic pregnancy in a Fallopian tube, periods generally return to normal after an average of 24 days (range of 24–38 days) from the pregnancy ending. If the first day of your last period was more than 42 days ago, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss the possible reasons for this. Your doctors may also discuss periods returning at a follow-up appointment.

We want you to know we are here for you for as long as you need.

With good wishes,

Michele

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

Registered Charity Number: 1071811

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