Hello all. Today I am discharged following my methotrexate treatment with my blood hcg being 9. I am told that I don’t require folic acid since I cannot try again for three months after discharge.
Initially I was told I cannot try again three months from the injection dose but now I’m told something conflicting. I am confused. I was counting days and this has only added to my worry. Can I start taking folic acid and when can I start trying again?
I was told 3 months from the date the injection is given.
Hi HisMercy,
I was in the exact same boat as you. I was discharged in November when my numbers also dropped from 141 to 9. I was advised by everyone to wait 3 months from the date of the injection except one nurse who said 3 months from the day my levels fall to 0. I spoke with a consultant and 2 other nurses after this and they both confirmed it’s safe to start trying 3 months after the date of injection.
It is advised to start taking folic acid straight after your levels have dropped to 0. I waited 2 days after I was discharged as they were on 9 at point of discharge. 2 days after I started taking folic acid and I am counting my 3 months from the date I started taking folic acid - this is my personal preference as I want to make sure my folate levels are back up before trying to conceive again.
It’s been 7 weeks and I am yet to have a period, hoping it comes soon so I can feel like my body and cycle is returning somewhat back to normal.
Wishing you all the best x
Thanks so much. I’m 38 with no children. I’ve had a miscarriage early last year and this ectopic. It’s depressing and feel so low.
Dear HisMercy,
I am sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss,
With Methotrexate, you should wait until your hCG levels have fallen to below 5mIU/mL (your doctor will advise you when this is through blood tests) and then take a folic acid supplement for 12 weeks before you try to conceive. 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.
Sending much love,
Karen x
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