Hi, I Had pain and ended up in A&E who then referred me to EPU and diagnosed with pregnancy unknown location with non viable pregnancy and HCG low 200s , I was expectantly managed for a week and HCG levels rose to early300s and was then advised methotrexate injection, day 4 post injection HCG showed a rise then day 7 a 30% reduction. Now on weekly bloods to monitor, it’s the waiting and watching that is killing me and I find it very mentally draining and difficult to switch off and not frantically worry about it and wonder if my tube has already ruptured and this is what my pain was when I attended A&E, can a scan always show a rupture? Has anyone any advice to help to waiting and anxiety around possible rupture or HCG rising again, feeling very isolated and anxious about the entire situation and really hope this doesn’t affect future fertility. Other success stories or hearing from others in a similar situation would be great support for me right now.
Dear Brodie,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy loss.
I was also treated with methotrexate (15 years ago) and remember vividly the worry I had over whether I was going to rupture. You are not alone in this and I wish I had a way to speed up time for you.
Rupture can be reviewed on a scan as the bleeding from the rupture gathers in the abdomen and this can be seen on the scan. They often report it as free fluid.
Methotrexate is not offered as a treatment if there is evidence of free fluid on a scan, so you can be reassured that there was no sign of rupture on your scan.
It is also normal for hCG levels to rise on day 4 bloods as the action of methotrexate is not instantaneous. It is also reassuring that your hCG levels are already declining and hopefully you’ll grow more confidence as your hCG levels continue to decline over the coming weeks.
Whilst hCG levels are declining, we advise to avoid anything that increases intra abdominal pressure such as strenuous exercise or housework, heavy lifting, and penetrating intercourse.
For now, try too keep your mind busy- reading, binge watching a programme, catch up with friends, go on gentle walks, anything to keep your mind occupied.
To go back to my story, my hCG levels went down and I did not need any further treatment. I remember it feeling agonisingly slow (although I can’t remember the time frame now) and I went on to have two successful pregnancies, so I hope this gives some level of comfort.
We are here for you too, these boards are a safe space to read other people’s experiences, ask questions or even vent. We will be here for you for as long as you need.
Best wishes,
Karen x
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
Registered Charity Number: 1071811
Ectopic pregnancy patient information suite: Highly Commended in the 2019 BMA Patient Information Awards
If the information provided here or through the EPT website has helped you, you can donate towards our support services, volunteer, or fundraise to raise awareness.
Further information is available on our website.
Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk
We provide a call-back helpline service: 020 7733 2653
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
Hi Karen,
Many thanks for sharing your story and your knowledge this is really reassuring to know about ruptures being imaged on the scan.
I have taken your advice and started watching a few box sets to take my mind of it and try keep occupied.
Good news is that my HCG is falling and I am just hoping it continues to do so
Thank you again for your reassurance and it’s lovely to know you have went on to have 2 children post methotrexate treatment, thank you for sharing
Dear Brodie,
I am pleased to hear your hCG levels are decreasing. I am sending positive thoughts that they settle nice and quickly for you.you
Best wishes,
Karen x
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
Registered Charity Number: 1071811
Ectopic pregnancy patient information suite: Highly Commended in the 2019 BMA Patient Information Awards
If the information provided here or through the EPT website has helped you, you can donate towards our support services, volunteer, or fundraise to raise awareness.
Further information is available on our website.
Email us: ept@ectopic.org.uk
We provide a call-back helpline service: 020 7733 2653
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