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What can I expect?!

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Jkh87
Posts: 7
Joined: Thu Jun 08, 2017 6:17 pm

What can I expect?!

Post by Jkh87 »

Hi there.

First time using a forum but am feeling a little bit all over the place.

I was told yesterday that I have an ectopic in my right Fallopian tube measuring about 3cm and hGC levels at around 900.

I had a shot of metheltrexate yesterday at 4pm.

I have been v uncomfortable for the last three days (started day before I found out about the ep), especially when going to the toilet, walking, and eating.

My question is (and I know everyone is different) what can I expect to happen to my body over the next couple of weeks?

I know it's probably going to get worse before it gets better but my EPU didn't give me any indication of what to prepare myself for - apart from it might hurt and you might bleed!

My partner and I live 40mins drive away from each other and I'm a single mum to twin boys so trying to prepare myself for the weeks ahead.

TIA

Jess xx

Ktd1009
Posts: 9
Joined: Wed Jun 07, 2017 11:54 am

Re: What can I expect?!

Post by Ktd1009 »

Hi Jess

Sorry to hear about your loss, IV had two ectopic pregnancys.. my first one was treated with the injection also.. i was bad the day after had a upset tummy and felt run down and i felt really tired drained and sick for a good week after but then everyone's different... I didn't feel bad pysically for very long at all if you look on the NHS website it explains some side affects just take it easy and if you have any concerns try and get into the doctors have you got to go for follow ups at the hospital to check your hormone levels also ? Because they might give you some advice if you ask

Hope it was of some help, if you ever need I'm only a message away
Kiri xx

Jkh87
Posts: 7
Joined: Thu Jun 08, 2017 6:17 pm

Re: What can I expect?!

Post by Jkh87 »

Thanks, Kiri. That's really helpful. And sorry to hear of your losses.

I've got to go back on Saturday for the first hormone test after the injection. I'm preparing myself for it going up as know that's quite common.

Been laid up on the sofa for most of today which I just find so boring (thank goodness for Netflix!) but know my body needs the rest. Wasn't expecting to feel this exhausted so quickly.

xx

EPT Host 22
Posts: 662
Joined: Fri Nov 20, 2015 10:26 am

Re: What can I expect?!

Post by EPT Host 22 »

Hi Jess,

I'm so sorry to hear that you are experiencing an ectopic pregnancy. It can be a confusing time, and I will do my best to help.

As already mentioned, everyone is different in how they respond to methotrexate and how long it takes for the HCG levels to come down. You can read a bit more on the Trust's website about the treatment with methotrexate: http://www.ectopic.org.uk/patients/treatment/.

The bleeding you may experience occurs after treatment is the body's response to falling hormone levels. Usually the bleeding after treatment lasts about a week and the begins to diminishes. Provided you are not soaking more than a pad an hour and you can manage the pain with over the counter pain relief then please try not to worry. If the pain relief doesn't help, heavy bleeding occurs or you have an increased body temperature of more than 37°C, should seek get medical attention as soon as possible. You may consider keeping a pain diary noting when you experience the pain and where, its intensity and anything that helps like rest or pain relief such as paracetamol.

The most important thing you can do is to look after yourself right now, and to continue to monitor your symptoms. As a mum, I know its challenging to say try to rest and recover, but where you can do so it's very important. While I do not want to alarm you, it can be possible to rupture with low/falling hormone levels (under 5mIU/mL is considered no longer pregnant) and it would be important to get the care that you need to be on the safe side.

Please know this is a safe space for your thoughts and concerns, and we are here for you for as long as you need.

With good wishes,


Michele


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Jkh87
Posts: 7
Joined: Thu Jun 08, 2017 6:17 pm

Re: What can I expect?!

Post by Jkh87 »

Hi Michele.

Thank you for this information. So much more helpful than what I've been given by my hospital.

I actually ended up in AnE at 3.30 this morning after an episode of excruciating pain, nausea and fainting (red flag for a rupture). Luckily, it hadn't ruptured and I am back at home now with some heavy duty painkillers.

This has made me realise what a tough road is ahead of me - physically and mentally. Thank you for your support and kind words.

Jess xx

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