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ACOG

Wellbeing is a new health and lifestyle resource, brought to you in association with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), a nonprofit membership organization of more than 50,000 obstetrician- gynecologists. Designed for women at every stage of life, from pregnancy and birth, to menopause and beyond, Wellbeing is an essential guide for a healthier, happier you!

 
 

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Neither this website nor its contents constitute an explicit or implied endorsement by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), or by Boston Hannah International (BHI), of the products or services mentioned in advertising or editorial content. The editorial content on this website does not necessarily represent policies or recommendations by ACOG. This website is not intended to be exhaustive. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, neither ACOG, nor BHI shall have any liability for errors or omissions. Readers who have questions should consult their health care providers or other competent sources of information and guidance.

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Pregnancy & Birth pregnancy loss

 
 

After a miscarriage

Pregnancy loss

If you experience any unusual symptoms such as heavy bleeding or severe pain consult your doctor.

Following a miscarriage, some women may have to undergo a dilation and curettage, which is a procedure to remove any tissue that remains in the uterus.

Miscarriage is a sad, frightening thing to go through for all women. Unfortunately, anywhere from 15-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and most occur during the first 13 weeks of pregnancy. Often when miscarriage occurs early in pregnancy, tissue is left in the uterus. If there is concern about heavy bleeding or infection, this tissue will be removed. Some women who miscarry may undergo a procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C).

When should I Call my doctor?

You should call your doctor if you experience:

  • Bleeding more than a menstrual period (i.e. requiring more than one pad per hour)
  • Severe pain
  • Fever over 100.4ƒF or chills
  • Foul smelling discharge
 

What is a D&C?

D&C is a surgical procedure to remove any tissue that remains in the uterus. Dilation opens the cervix, and curettage removes the tissue in the uterus, either by using gentle suction or by scraping the walls of the uterus. If all fetal tissue is not expelled after a miscarriage, this procedure is used to help stop bleeding and prevent infection. About half of all women who miscarry undergo a D&C. It is usually recommended for women who miscarry later than 10 to 12 weeks, have had complications, or have any medical conditions for which they may need emergency care.

Precations

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with a D&C including:

  • Reactions to anesthesia (e.g. breathing problems, adverse reaction to medication)
  • Heavy bleeding from the vagina
  • Infection
  • Perforation of the uterus
  • Laceration of the cervix
  • Scarring of the uterus or cervix
  • Incomplete procedure (this could require another D&C)
 

How is it done?

A D&C is done in a doctor's office, emergency room or operating room. Before the procedure begins, you will receive some type of anesthesia. You and your doctor will agree on the type to be used. Your cervix will be slowly opened (dilated) to allow surgical instruments to pass through. Then tissue lining the uterus is removed, either with an instrument called a curette or with suction. This tissue may be sent to a lab for testing. Once your uterus is firm and bleeding has stopped, you will be sent to a recovery room.

What happens after the procedure?

Unless you have complications or other medical conditions, you will probably be able to go home within a few hours. You will be given prescriptions for an antibiotic and pain medication. You should be able to return to normal activities after a few days. You may have some painful cramping at first, but that should go away after 24 hours. Light cramps and bleeding can last up to two weeks. Do not put anything into your vagina for at least two weeks, or until the bleeding stops. Your next period could start from two to six weeks after the procedure, so after you get the green light to resume sexual intercourse, you should use contraception until your doctor tells you it is safe to get pregnant again.

 
 
To find an obstetrician-gynecologist using ACOG's Physician Directory, click here