I was diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy on the 25th June when i was 9 weeks pregnant. It ruptured my fallopian tube and caused internal bleeding so i had to have surgery to remove one of my tubes. Thankfully both of my ovaries and other tube was reported healthy. My recovery has been well considering its been approx 10 days, my bleeding has subsided.
Im keeping very much positive and hopeful for the future and am aware that it things could have been much worse. The report from the consultant was that the operation was very successful and i should not be disheartened to have successful pregnancies in the future.
I didnt have a methotrexate injection and i am under no other medication than the antibiotics given to prevent infection post surgery. I have one week left. I am aware that i have to wait atleast 2 normal period cycles before ttc again, but my question is when i can start to take folic acid. I have read alot about those who have had methotrexate have to wait 3 months to allow hcg levels to reduce before taking it. Is it the same for those who have had surgery? My hcg levels were approximately 12,000 on the day of surgery.
I would really appreciate some guidance on whether i dont have to wait the full three months to take folic acid compared to if i had had methotrexate.
I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy loss,
If you haven’t had methotrexate, you can take folic acid supplements straight away and as you have already mentioned, many medical professionals advise waiting for two menstrual cycles before trying to conceive. It is important to allow time for your body to recover and emotions to surface and be worked through. This is so that you have some comfort that your body is returning to its natural rhythm and you have a last menstrual period date from which to date a new pregnancy - key information in checking you are not suffering from an ectopic pregnancy in the future. The first bleed soon after surgery for ectopic pregnancy is not classed as a period as it is the body’s response to falling hormone levels.
Don’t forget to book for an early pregnancy scan at around 6 weeks with any subsequent pregnancies. Hopefully you will also have some comfort to know you are under the radar of medical professionals right away.
Sending much love,
Karen x
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
Registered Charity Number: 1071811
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
The timing for starting to take folic acid after surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery, the reason for taking folic acid, and your individual health needs. Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in cell division and the production of DNA. It is commonly recommended for pregnant women to prevent certain birth defects and is also important for overall health.
Here are some general guidelines:
Pre-surgery Preparation: If you are planning to have surgery and your healthcare provider recommends taking folic acid as part of your pre-surgery preparations, you should start taking it as directed by your healthcare provider. This may be several weeks before the surgery to ensure your body has adequate levels of folic acid for healing and recovery.
Post-surgery Recovery: After surgery, your healthcare provider may recommend folic acid as part of your post-operative care plan. The timing for starting it can vary, but it is usually initiated in the days or weeks following surgery. Again, the specific timing and dosage will depend on your individual health and the type of surgery you had.
Pregnancy Planning: If you are taking folic acid to prevent birth defects during pregnancy, you should start taking it at least one month before you become pregnant. If you are already pregnant, you should start taking folic acid immediately and continue throughout your pregnancy.