Miscarriage: Expectant Management for Incomplete Miscarriage
Topic Overview
Traditionally, an incomplete miscarriage has been treated surgically with dilation and curettage (D&C). This practice is based on the concern that an incomplete miscarriage, in which a woman's uterus retains tissue, can lead to excessive bleeding or infection. But expectant management is a safe treatment option for many early, uncomplicated miscarriages. If you choose expectant management, your doctor will watch you closely for problems during miscarriage.
Expectant management may be a treatment choice for you if you:
- Are having a first-trimester miscarriage.
- Have stable blood pressure and a stable heart rate.
- Are not bleeding excessively and are not anemic.
- Do not have a fever or other signs of infection.
- Are not experiencing a high level of pain.
- Can keep frequent medical and blood work appointments during and after your miscarriage.
Some women choose medical treatment or surgical treatment (D&C) instead of expectant management. Expectant management takes longer for the miscarriage to resolve. So it takes more time for bleeding to stop.
In some cases a miscarriage that is being treated with expectant management will still require surgical treatment, such as when excessive bleeding occurs.
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ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Current as ofNovember 21, 2017
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Current as of: November 21, 2017