Hey! I just wanted to seek some advice. I recently went through an ectopic pregnancy and it was treated with a single dose of methotrexate. My levels are now down to zero after 4 weeks ish. I started to have sex again and every other time it seems to really irritate and cause an infection. I’ve never had issues before and it seems to be more prolonged. Wanted to seek some information if this has happened to anyone else or maybe i’m doing it too soon? It’s been 6 weeks since methotrexate and I started bleeding today. Would that be my period? Or a side effect that comes later?
Dear Rosafelix,
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy loss,
We generally advise that you can start having sex once your hCG levels are back to pre-pregnancy levels, but some people do find it uncomfortable as your body has been through a great deal and it may take a few.months to settle down.
As a gentle reminder following methotrexate treatment, we and many healthcare professionals advise to wait until your hCG levels have reached pre-pregnancy levels (your doctor will tell you when this is) then take folic acid supplements for 12 weeks. This is because the Methotrexate may have reduced the level of folate in your body which is needed to ensure a baby develops healthily. The Methotrexate is metabolised quickly but it can affect the quality of your cells, including those of your eggs and the quality of your blood for up to three months after it has been given. The medicine can also affect the way your liver works and so you need to give your body time to recover properly before a new pregnancy is considered. A shortage of folate could result in a greater chance of a baby having a neural tube defect such as hare lip, cleft palate, or even spina bifida or other NT defects. This is why the “wait” and then taking folic acid for 12 weeks before trying to conceive is so important.
This also gives chance for your body to recover from the ordeal of an ectopic pregnancy, it gives your periods to return to a more normal cycle. This can be key when dating possible future scan dates.I
It sounds as if this bleed is your first period. You mention infection, unfortunately we are unable to provide personalised medical advice, so if you are developing infections following sexual intercourse or if you are concerned about the pain, please seek medical advice.
Sending much love,
Karen x
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
Registered Charity Number: 1071811
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