I suffered from my 2nd ectopic this year in July 2017 and was treated with methotrexate. I had my bloods result today and they are down to 12 and I was discharged from the hospital and told I didn’t need to come back for any more tests. I was told that I can start taking supplements from now however everything I had read said that I should only do this once I was at zero? The nurse at the Early Pregnancy Clinic said 12 was low enough for a ‘Not Pregnant’ result on a pregnancy test (which I promptly did and it showed negative), therefore I was fine to start the supplements and the 3 month countdown to trying again. Just wondered if this was correct? I’m nervous of doing anything to slow this process down or jeopardise when we can start trying again. Thanks in advance. Xx
At the trust we advise 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.
I would advise talking to your Dr to reassure you about your levels.
Sending much love,
Karen x
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I am so sorry to hear of your ectopic pregnancy and loss,
Unfortunately I am not medically trained and do not have access to your medical records so if your Dr has informed you not to restart folic acid for medical reasons, I would advise you following their advice.
Otherwise advice is as above that once your hCG levels fall to non pregnant levels you can start taking folic acid for 12 weeks before ttc as outlined in the post above.
If you are unsure why your Dr has advised to wait 3months, do call to ask but this is not usual advice.
Sending much love,
Karen x
If we have been able to help you, are you able to help us with a small donation or by volunteering?
Our helpline is 020 7733 2653 (available Monday to Friday 10am - 4pm).
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.