What to Expect

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Treatment after Miscarriage

You may need no treatment or you may need a D&C, dilation and curettage. Dilation means stretching of the cervix at the opening of the uterus. Curettage means scraping or using suction very gently to cleanse it of all the remains of the pregnancy.

Your doctor will talk with you about needing a D&C.

Physical Changes

Over the next few days, your body will return to a non-pregnant state. You may have some vaginal bleeding, similar to a heavy menstrual period. This tapers off over the next week. Your breasts may feel tender or leak a little. This also subsides in about a week.

Resume your normal daily and working activities as you feel up to it.

Call your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Vaginal bleeding for two weeks or more.
• Bleeding that is heavier than your normal period for more than 24 hours.
• Foul or bad smelling discharge from your vagina.
• Severe pain in you abdomen.
• Chills or a fever over 38.5°C (101.3°F) by mouth.
• Preventing Infection after D & C

The opening of the uterus stays partially open for several days after the D&C. During this time, bacteria can enter and cause infection. It is important to take the following precautions:

• Use only sanitary pads while you are bleeding. Do not use tampons.
• Do not have sexual intercourse for at least one week, or until the bleeding has stopped, whichever is longer.
• Do not douche.
• Do not use a hot tub, bath, or swimming pool until the bleeding has stopped. Warm showers or sponge baths are okay.

Menstruation

You should have a menstrual period in 4 to 6 weeks. Talk to your doctor if this does not happen.

Birth Control

You should use birth control when you resume sexual intercourse. It is possible to become pregnant immediately after a pregnancy loss, even before menstruation has started. Ask your doctor or community health nurse for birth control information.

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