Hi rs1995x,
I’m so sorry to hear that you have suffered this ectopic pregnancy and loss. While I’m not medically qualified to comment on your specific situation, I will do my best to help.
The Trust recommends waiting three months to conceive. While there is no clear, researched evidence on how long a couple should wait to try to conceive after having treatment for ectopic pregnancy, we and other medical professionals advise that it may be best to wait for at least three months or two full menstrual cycles (periods) before trying to conceive for both physical and emotional reasons. The bleed that occurs in the first week or so of treatment for an ectopic pregnancy is not your first period. It is the bleed that occurs in response to falling hormones associated with the lost pregnancy. Physically, this timeframe is to allow your cycle to return to normal and for there to be a clear period to date a new pregnancy from. The date of the first day of the period is what is used to decide when to scan a new pregnancy; information that is invaluable in ensuring you are not suffering from another ectopic pregnancy.
What I can say is that studies suggest the chances of pregnancy are about same irrespective of type of treatment - Expectant management or medical management or surgery. The chances of a further ectopic after a first in UK is 10%. So that’s 90% chance of the embryo being in right place next time.
While generally, it is possible to conceive after an ectopic pregnancy, the amount of time it takes varies from couple to couple. Factors include age, general health, reproductive health and how often you have sex, among other things. It may be comforting to know that 65% of women are successfully pregnant within 18 months of experiencing an ectopic pregnancy and some studies suggest this rises to around 85% after two years.
TTC after an ectopic pregnancy can be an anxious time for many women. I know how strong the desire to have a child can be, and I encourage you to be extra-compassionate with yourself during this time. So many of these processes are well outside of our control. It’s important to have the emotional and physical support you need during this time. Please know that we are here for you throughout your journey. Please take good care and look after yourself.
With good wishes,
Michele
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
Registered Charity Number: 1071811 (England & Wales) SC053187 (Scotland)
The EPT is awarded the PIF TICK as a Trusted Information Creator, the UK-wide quality mark for healthcare information
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 support line: 020 7733 2653. We are able to provide support in multiple languages including British Sign Language.
Take a look at our newsletters and subscribe to our mailing list.
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