Getting Pregnant after Ectopic

[4ravens]

I had an ectopic pregancy about a year ago and have been trying to get pregnant for about 8 months. My doctor has me taking chlomid and we are doing IUI's, but they won't do it if the egg is on the same side as the ectopic was on. Is this common practice? They said that they are trying to be safe, but it is so frustrating to be able to try 4 months out of the 8 we have been trying. I just went for a scan today and the egg is on that side again. I have also turned 35 last month so that is adding to everything else. I have not been able to find anyone else that has been told not to try if the egg is on the side of the ectopic. I was pretty early when the ectopic was found and had the Methro, something shot, no surgery.   Should we avoid trying if the egg is on that side?  Of course we are anxious and just need another opinion.  

[ntp31]

I had an ectopic pregnancy back in March.  I had the HSG dye test done and found that both of my tubes were blocked.  Now I am on my first cycle of IVF.  I would get the test done, if you haven't already.

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
If you were my patient, I would try no matter which side the egg is on!  The ovaries and fallopian tubes are very close to each other behind the uterus, and it is not uncommon for the left tube to pick up an egg from the right ovary and vice versa.  
I certainly hope that your doctor has recommended a hysterosalpingogram to be certain that at least one of the fallopian tubes is open!  If not, get one ASAP.  You need to jump right to In Vitro if both tubes are damaged.
You are at risk for ectopic pregnancy no matter which tube gets the egg, so I think your doctor is wasting your time.  As long as you are aware of the risks, and will be compliant with follow up should a pregnancy occur.
You may want to just refer yourself to a reproductive endocrinologist.
Good luck!
Dr B