What happens to the placenta in a miscarriage?

The placenta is the organ that normally connects the pregnancy with the uterus and supports exchange of oxygen and nutrients. In early pregnancy, the tissue passed during a miscarriage may include blood clots, the pregnancy sac and placental tissue. It may not be possible to identify each part by appearance, and passing tissue does not by itself confirm that the uterus is empty.

A Transvaginal Ultrasound or other follow-up assessment can help determine whether tissue remains. Retained tissue can contribute to continued bleeding, cramps or infection, although symptoms vary. Your clinician may discuss waiting, medicine or a procedure based on your examination and overall health.

Use a pad and note the amount of bleeding, pain, temperature and any unusual smell. Do not handle or preserve tissue unless a clinician has given instructions. Arrange follow-up even if bleeding settles, because the next step depends on whether the miscarriage is complete and how you are recovering.

If treatment is needed, Medical Management of Miscarriage uses medicine to help the uterus empty; Surgical Management of Miscarriage removes remaining tissue through a procedure. Ask what follow-up test or scan will be used and when normal activities can resume.

Seek urgent help for heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fainting, dizziness, fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge or feeling very unwell. These signs may need prompt treatment for bleeding or infection.

Ask: Could tissue still be present? Do I need a scan? What symptoms suggest infection? Which treatment fits my situation? How will you confirm recovery, and when should I contact you again?