Hi,
I’m probably being a worry wart… I missed an ectopic in late 2015 and ended up rupturing and having emergency surgery - I never want to go through that again!
I’m about a week late, which is unusual for me. I am always very regular. I’ve done a couple of tests and they are negative. I don’t know when I should really start to look at going to the doctors? I feel they would probably think I’m being a bit silly if I go after only being a week late?
Am I worrying unnecessarily? When should I do something? Would a pregnancy test pick up an ectopic?
Dear Laura123b,
It is completely understandable to feel concern after all you have been through.
Periods can be delayed for a number of reasons including stress or even (as surprising as it may sound) excessive exercise or weight loss. Doctors normally consider menstrual cycles of between 23-42 days to be within normal parameters. If it gets to 42 days since the first day of your last period, I would suggest asking your doctors to investigate further. Over the counter pregnancy tests do have differing levels of sensitivity to hCG so are not 100% reliable for negative results. While I do not want to alarm you, if you experience any pain or unusual bleeding, please do get medical attention as soon as you can.
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?
Further information is available at www.ectopic.org.uk
Email us at ept@ectopic.org.uk.
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.