Periods and contraception after expectant management

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1

Does anyone know how long it takes to get periods back after expectant management? I’ve bled for 3 weeks now and still spotting although appear to have reducing hcg now.

Also any advice on contraception specifically after ectopic? I’m so nervous that this could happen again - I need a break! Psychologically I need to know that this scary thing can’t happen again for a while!

Is a first true period after ectopic any different or does your cycle resume normally?

2

Hi.

I had a managed ectopic. I had a bleed at week 4 and confirmed ectopic at week 6. By the time they checked my bloods my hcg was 20.

Exactly 4 weeks after my bleed I got my period. Its been very light but I’ve had bad cramps.

Hoping to try again this month. We have been waiting for ages and I’m sick if it now.

Hope you feel better soon x

3

Thanks for this. Always lovely to hear of someone for whom it’s been successful. Bleeding seems to have stopped and I’m at 79. Bit unsure as to whether I can risk sex (with condoms!). Just want to get back to normality. Feel like this has taken over.

Limbo !

Glad you’re able to get back to trying. So important to feel back in control of things.

4

Dear EctopicPUL,

Your periods can take a while to re-establish - they can re-start anything between two and ten weeks,

The first period may be more painful or less so than usual, heavier or lighter, last for longer or shorter than usual – there really is no set pattern. You should be able to manage the discomfort with over-the-counter pain relief and should not be soaking a pad in less than an hour. If this is not the case, you should seek medical attention

Sadly I am not medically trained and choice of contraception also depends upon your medical history and any medications you may be taking. I would advise talking to your GP or family planning nurse about suitable choices for you. We have more information on contraception our website here-

https://www.ectopic.org.uk/patients/you … pregnancy/

Sending much love,

Karen x

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