Patient Information

Patient agreement to investigation or

treatment

Medical management of an ectopic

pregnancy using Methotrexate
Authors: Gynaecology Department

Brief description:
This leaflet aims to help you understand more about ectopic pregnancy generally and
specifically about medical management of ectopic pregnancy using the drug
Methotrexate. It also aims to tell you where to seek more support to help you to come
to terms with losing your baby, and about planning future pregnancies.
Here, we explain some of the aims, benefits, risks and alternatives to this procedure.
We want you to be informed about your choices to help you to be fully involved in
making any decisions.
Please ask about anything you do not fully understand or wish to have explained in
more detail.
If you would like this information in another format or language or would like help
completing the form, please ask a member of our staff.

Please bring this form with you to hospital

You will be asked to read this form carefully, and you and your doctor (or other
appropriate healthcare professional) will sign it to document your consent.
All our consent forms are available on the Addenbrookes website:
http://www.cuh.org.uk/consent
Guidance for health professionals can be found on the Addenbrookes intranet site
http://nww.addenbrookes.nhs.uk/consent
Remember, you can change your mind about having the procedure at any time
even after you have signed the form.
________________________________________________________
For staff use:
Does the patient have any special requirements? (For example: requires an interpreter or
other additional communication method)
.........................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................
________________________________________________________

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Consent for: Medical management ectopic pregnancy
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Patient Information

Introduction
Sadly your pregnancy has resulted in an ectopic pregnancy; this is a pregnancy that
has developed outside the womb (uterus). We are very sorry that this has happened,
and hope that the information in this leaflet will be of some help to you and your
partner.

The staff on the Daphne Ward hope to help you through this distressing time by:
Explaining more about ectopic pregnancy.
Explaining the treatment advised for you by the medical staff.
Being available to give you advice over the telephone. When the unit is closed,
Ward M4, the main Gynaecology Inpatient Ward, is available for you to contact.
(Contact telephone numbers are found further on in this leaflet).
Providing written information for you, in the form of this leaflet, to help you
understand what is happening to you.

Frequently asked questions

What is an ectopic pregnancy?

Ectopic pregnancy is a common, potentially lifethreatening, condition affecting one in
100 pregnancies. It occurs when the fertilised egg implants outside the cavity of the
womb, usually the fallopian tube, and as the pregnancy grows it causes pain and
bleeding. If it is not treated quickly enough, it can rupture the tube and cause
abdominal bleeding, which can lead to shock and even death.

An ectopic pregnancy is unlikely to develop normally and is consequently termed a

type of miscarriage.

What causes an ectopic pregnancy?

Normally a fertilised egg travels from the ovary down the fallopian tube, where it
implants in the womb, usually six to seven days after fertilisation and there the
pregnancy will develop. In an ectopic pregnancy the egg does not travel to the womb
and can implant outside the womb, usually in the fallopian tube and does not develop
properly.

The most common cause of an ectopic pregnancy is damage to the fallopian tube,
causing a blockage or narrowing. However in most cases the cause of an ectopic
pregnancy is not known.

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Patient Information

What are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?

These are often difficult to distinguish, making an ectopic pregnancy very difficult to
diagnose:
A missed or delayed period.
Usually a positive urine pregnancy test.
Abdominal/pelvic pain this can be persistent and severe. It may be on one-
side, but not necessarily on the side where the ectopic is.
Shoulder pain.
Abnormal bleeding this may be lighter or heavier than a normal period, and
last longer. This bleeding is often dark in colour and watery (similar to prune
juice).
Diarrhoea or sometimes pain when opening the bowels.
Fainting feeling dizzy or light headed.

Who is at risk of an ectopic pregnancy?

Any sexually active woman of child-bearing age is at risk of an ectopic, but the
following factors are more commonly seen in women who have one:
History of pelvic inflammatory disease, such as Chlamydia.
Any previous abdominal surgery, such as appendectomy.
Intra Uterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) (coil).
The progesterone-only contraceptive pill (mini pill).
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) pregnancy.
History of a previous ectopic pregnancy.
Smoking.

How is an ectopic pregnancy diagnosed?

Usually by transvaginal ultrasound scan, this type of scan is used because it provides
a better view of the womb, ovaries and fallopian tubes. It involves inserting an
ultrasound probe into the vagina. However, it is not always possible to see an ectopic
pregnancy on scan.

If you are clinically well, you may have also required some blood tests (hCG) over a
48 hour period to help with the diagnosis.

Methotrexate
What is Methotrexate?
It is a drug from the family of cytotoxic drugs. In your case it works by preventing the
placental cells from developing, consequently only a small dosage is required, this
also means that any side effects are lessened. However, in some instances depending
on how your body responds to treatment you may require a second dose or, rarely, an
operation.

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Patient Information

Why have I been offered this treatment?

Although the incidence of ectopic pregnancy may be increasing, undoubtedly more
cases are diagnosed nowadays because of improved diagnostic facilities such as
ultrasound and hormone blood tests which can be undertaken earlier in the
pregnancy. In the past many of these ectopic pregnancies may have resolved
spontaneously.

On the basis of your tests we think this is unlikely to happen in your case. However,
we do think it is likely that you will respond to this treatment, rather than surgery
which may mean the removal of a fallopian tube.

During the procedure itself

How is the drug given?

It is administered by a suitably trained nurse into the large muscle of the buttock or
thigh.

Each patients dose is individually calculated and mixed by the Pharmacy Department,
and this does take a few hours. Depending on your individual circumstances you may
be admitted to the main Gynaecology Ward overnight, or you might be asked to
return the following day to Daphne Ward to have the drug.

Provided you are feeling well, you will be allowed home shortly after administration of
the drug.

Some patients (14%) require a further dose of the drug, and this would be similarly
administered.

After the procedure

Is there anything I must avoid for the duration of my
treatment?
Yes. It is important you avoid the following:
Sexual intercourse.
Smoking.
Alcohol.
Folic acid.
Exposure to the sun/sunlamps.
Non steroidal anti inflammatory analgesia (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen,
diclofenac.
Herbal remedies.
We would also advise you to take an adequate fluid intake avoiding dehydration
throughout this procedure.
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Patient Information

How many times will I have to return to the hospital for

blood tests?
This varies for every woman, but certainly we will monitor your blood tests until the
pregnancy hormone (hCG) is negative. This usually takes anywhere between two to
six weeks. Initially, you will need to attend the hospital for repeat blood tests four
days and seven days after the methotrexate was given to you.

It is essential that we monitor you closely during this procedure and will not
administer any treatment unless you commit to attending follow up appointments.

Will I experience any pain?

Yes, you might have some lower pelvic pain or back ache at any time during the
course of your treatment. If required, you can take paracetamol.

Whilst you are at home it is important to notify either Daphne Ward or Ward M4 if:
You experience any increase in pain.
Pain somewhere you have not previously had it.
You feel faint or dizzy.
Paracetamol is insufficient for any pain you are experiencing.

Will I have any vaginal bleeding?

Yes. This can vary from dark brown spotting to heavier bright red loss.

Use sanitary towels rather than tampons whilst you are bleeding, to reduce the risk of
any infection.

If you are concerned that the bleeding is excessive (requiring you to change a
sanitary pad every half an hour) please telephone either Daphne Ward or Ward M4
for advice.

Can I have a bath/shower during my treatment?

Avoid hot baths whilst you are bleeding heavily, as you may feel faint. Otherwise it is
safe for you to have a warm bath or shower.

Should I be off work during the treatment?

This is a very individual thing. However, it is stressful having treatment, also you are
recovering from the loss of your baby which can be a very distressing event in a
womans life.

Many women feel that at least a few days off work may be necessary, especially
during the first week when frequent trips to the hospital are required. You can self-
certificate for the first week off work, alternatively the staff on Daphne Ward will
provide you with a sick certificate.
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Consent for: Medical management ectopic pregnancy
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Patient Information

What are the advantages of Methotrexate?

If your ectopic pregnancy is not too far advanced, or ruptured, it is an appropriate
treatment option because:
It has a good success rate for treating small ectopic pregnancies (more than
90%).
Avoids surgery and the associated risks of having a general anaesthetic.
It is less likely than surgery to cause further fallopian tube damage.
It offers the best chance of maintaining fertility after treatment.
You do not have to stay in hospital.

What are the disadvantages of Methotrexate?

It can take a few weeks to complete the treatment.
Side effects of the drug itself, such as: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea.
There may be some mild, temporary, abnormalities in liver function blood tests,
which you are unlikely to be aware of. However, you may require further blood
tests during your treatment.
Repeated visits to the hospital are essential (with blood tests).
You may require a second dose of the drug.
You are advised to wait at least three months before trying for a future
pregnancy.
You are more vulnerable to infection (if you come into contact with someone
with flu/common cold etc).

Information and support

We understand that sometimes it can be frightening being at home during a

course of treatment. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you are unsure
what to do:

Daphne ward
o 08:00 20:00, Monday Friday
o 08:30 14:00 Saturday & Sunday
o Closed on Bank Holidays
01223 217636

Ward M4
(all other times)
01223 348544

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Patient Information

How long must I wait before trying to become pregnant

again?
At least three months. This ensures that all of the Methotrexate has left your body
with no effect on future pregnancies.

During this time it is advisable to use condoms for contraception.

When can I expect a period?

Every woman is different regarding how soon after treatment for an ectopic pregnancy
they have their next period. However, sometime in the next four to six weeks is
considered usual.

Often this period may be different than usual (heavier or lighter), again this is nothing
to be concerned about, unless the bleeding is very heavy; in which case consult your
GP or Daphne ward directly.

What happens when I do become pregnant again?

Women who have had an ectopic pregnancy are more at risk of it happening again. If
you suspect you may be pregnant:

Do an early urine pregnancy test at home

Contact Daphne ward or M4 ward if you have any signs or symptoms similar to
those you experienced on this occasion.

If you are otherwise well, your GP will arrange for you to have an early ultrasound
scan, to ensure the pregnancy is in the womb.

How will I feel emotionally?

It is not unusual to feel low in mood or tearful at any time during or after a
miscarriage, and this is true for women who have ectopic pregnancies too. Some
women even feel quite angry, why has it happened to me?

It is quite normal for you to feel sad and upset about losing your baby. Losing a baby
can be a very painful experience for partners too, and sometimes their grief is
unacknowledged.

If you feel that you, or your partner, need more help coming to terms with losing your
baby, here are some contact numbers, which may be of use:

The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust 01895 238025 www.ectopicpregnancy.org.uk

The Miscarriage Association (local contact Janet Sackman 01763 249243)

www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk

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Patient Information

Do I need to inform anyone about my ectopic pregnancy?

No. Staff on Daphne Ward will have written to your GP & community midwife and any
antenatal scans or appointments will have been cancelled, so you do not need to
worry about doing this.

The future
Any preconception care you have been following should continue, once it is safe for
you to try and become pregnant again such as:
taking folic acid
reducing your alcohol and caffeine intake
ceasing smoking

If you are unsure whether you wish to try for a future pregnancy, it is advisable to
consider your contraceptive needs during this time.

We hope this information leaflet has been of help to you. If you have any
further concerns, please contact the staff on Daphne ward.

References/ Sources of evidence

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (2004 reviewed 2010)
Guideline No.21: The management of Tubal Pregnancy. RCOG London
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (2010) An Ectopic
Pregnancy: Information for you. RCOG London

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Patient Information

We are currently working towards a smoke free site. Smoking is only permitted
in the designated smoking areas.

For advice and support in quitting, contact your GP or the free NHS stop
smoking helpline on 0800 169 0 169

Help with this leaflet:

If you would like this information in another language, large

print or audio format, please ask the department to contact
Patient Information: 01223 216032 or
[email protected]

Document history
Authors Gynaecology Department
Department Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road,
Cambridge, CB2 0QQ www.cuh.org.uk
Contact number 01223 217755
Publish/Review date October 2011/October 2014
File name Medical_management_of_an_ectopic_pregnancy_using
_methotrexate
Version number/Ref 1/CF433

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Consent for: Medical management ectopic pregnancy
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 Addenbrookes Hospital
Consent form 1 For staff use only:
Surname:
First names:
Patient agreement to Date of birth:
Hospital no:
investigation or treatment Male/Female:
(Use hospital identification label)
Responsible health professional/job title

......................................................
Special requirements ................................................................................................
(For example, other language/other communication method)

Name of proposed procedure or course of treatment

Medical management of an ectopic pregnancy using methotrexate
Statement of health professional
(To be filled in by a health professional with an appropriate knowledge of the proposed
procedure, as specified in the Hospitals consent policy)

I have explained the procedure to the patient. In particular, I have explained:

The intended benefits of the procedure: High success rate at treating small ectopic
pregnancies. To avoid surgery and is less likely than surgery to cause further fallopian tube
damage. Maintaining fertility following treatment.
Any serious or frequently occurring risks from the procedures including those specific to the
patient: Potentially may require a second dose or possibly surgical intervention.
.Any extra procedures that might become necessary during the procedure
Blood transfusion Other procedure (please specify) ..................................................
..
I have discussed what the treatment / procedure is likely to involve, the benefits and risks of any
available alternative treatments (including no treatment) and any particular concerns of this patient.
The following information leaflet has been provided: ........................................................
................................... Version/Date/Ref: 1/October 2011/CF433 .....................
This procedure will involve:
General and/or regional anaesthesia Local anaesthesia Sedation
Health professionals signature: ..Date:
Name (PRINT): .. Job title: ..
Contact details (if patient wishes to discuss details later)
I have offered the patient information about the procedure but s/he has declined information.
Statement of the interpreter (if appropriate)
I have interpreted the information to the best of my ability, and in a way in which I believe s/he
can understand:
Interpreters signature.............................................................. Date: ..............................

Name (PRINT):........................................................................
Important notes: (tick if applicable)
The patient has withdrawn consent (ask patient to sign/date here) ................................
See also advance directive/living will
Copy accepted by patient: yes / no (please circle)

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Consent for: Medical management ectopic pregnancy
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 Addenbrookes Hospital

For staff use only:

Surname:
First names:
Statement of patient
Date of birth:
Please read this form carefully. If your treatment has been planned Hospital no:
in advance, you should already have your own copy, which Male/Female:
describes the benefits and risks of the proposed treatment. If not, (Use hospital identification label)
you will be offered a copy now. Do ask if you have any further
questions. The staff at Addenbrookes are here to help you. You have the right to change your mind at
any time before the procedure is undertaken, including after you have signed this form.
Training doctors and other health professionals is essential to the continuation of the Health Service and
improving the quality of care. Your treatment may provide an important opportunity for such training, where
necessary under the careful supervision of a senior doctor. You may, however, decline to be involved in the
formal training of medical and other students without this adversely affecting your care and treatment.

Please read the following:

I understand that I will have the opportunity to discuss the details of anaesthesia with an
anaesthetist before the procedure, unless the urgency of my situation prevents this. (This only
applies to patients having general or regional anaesthesia.)
I understand that you cannot give me a guarantee that a particular person will perform the
procedure. The person undertaking the procedure will, however, have appropriate experience.
I understand that any procedure in addition to those described on this form will only be
carried out if it is necessary to save my life or to prevent serious harm to my health.
I have been told about additional procedures which may become necessary during my
treatment. I have listed below any procedures that I do not wish, without further
discussion, to be carried out.

I understand that any tissue (including blood) removed as part of the procedure or
treatment will be anonymised and may be used for teaching or quality control, and stored or
disposed of in a manner regulated by appropriate, ethical, legal and professional standards.
I understand that all research will be approved by a research ethics committee and
undertaken in accordance with appropriate ethical, legal and professional standards.
I understand that the research may be conducted within a hospital, university, not for profit
organisation or a company laboratory.
Please tick boxes to indicate you either agree/disagree to the three points below. Yes No
I agree that tissue (including blood) not needed for my own diagnosis or treatment can be
used for research which may include genetic research. If you wish to withdraw your
consent for the use of your tissue (including blood) for research, please contact the Patient
Advice and Liaison Service at Addenbrooke's Hospital.
I agree to the use of photography for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment.
I agree to anonymised photographs being used for medical teaching.

I confirm that the risks, benefits and alternatives of this procedure have been discussed
with me and I have read and understood the above and agree to the procedure (or course of
treatment) on this form.
Patients signature:........................................................... Date: ............................
Name (PRINT): ............................................................................
If the patient is unable to sign but has indicated his/her consent, a witness should
sign below. Young people may also like a parent to sign here (see guidance notes).
Witness signature: ........................................................... Date: ............................
Name (PRINT): ..........................................................................................................
Confirmation of consent (to be completed by a health professional when the
patient is admitted for the procedure, if the patient has signed the form in advance)
On behalf of the team treating the patient, I have confirmed with the patient that
s/he has no further questions and wishes the procedure to go ahead.
Signature Date: ....................................................................
Name (PRINT): .................................................................. Job Title: ............................

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Consent for: Medical management ectopic pregnancy
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