Vitamins and supplements after methotrexate

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1

Hello,

I had an ectopic pregnancy in Oct. I had 1 dose of methotrexate and then had to have surgery to remove pregnancy & left fallopian tube.

Since then I’ve been taking a pregnacare pre conception vitamin as well as folic acid and vitamin D spray. But some days (fairly often) I have forgotten to take my supplements. I’m just wondering how important it is to take the vitamins, esp folic acid? Do levels increase naturally over time anyway? Its now been 3 months so I can start trying again but I’m obviously nervous about the whole thing, worried that it will be harder to get pregnant and if I do, my folic acid levels mightn’t be high enough.

Any help appreciated.

Thanks so much,

Erin

2

Dear Erin,

I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss,

Unfortunately I am not medically trained so cannot give you specific advice on your query.

If you have a healthy diet, supplementing with pre pregnancy vitamins containing folic acid will be enough. Unless you have been informed otherwise by a medical professional, there is no need to take an increased dose.

Taking supplements for 12 weeks prior to conceiving is the standard advice and I’m sure with the best will in the world, we can all forget occasionally. If you have missed quite a few and are concerned about the levels, you could take them for another month and change your routine so you perhaps take them a time you are more likely to remember or keep them by your bed to take them first thing in the morning or last thing at night.

Making the decision to begin trying to conceive is an emotional rollercoaster compounded by our sad loss. Again, you are not alone. We here emotional support whenever you need us. There is a specific Preparing for your Next Pregnancy board you can look at too whenever feel ready.

Sending much love,

Karen x

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