Placenta after miscarriage: what to know

The placenta develops during pregnancy, so tissue from the pregnancy can remain in the womb after the pregnancy ends. Remaining tissue may cause continued bleeding, cramping, pelvic tenderness, or an unusual discharge, although symptoms vary. A clinician may use a transvaginal ultrasound to check whether the uterus is empty and to guide the next decision.

If tissue remains, the options can include waiting for it to pass, medicine to help the uterus empty, or a procedure to remove it. The choice depends on your bleeding, examination, scan findings, pregnancy timing, and personal preferences.

Arrange follow-up with your maternity or gynaecology team if you have been told that tissue may remain. Keep track of bleeding, pain, temperature, and any discharge. Rest, drink fluids, and use only pain relief that your clinician says is suitable for you. Your team can explain medical management of miscarriage and surgical management of miscarriage, including what to expect during recovery.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, severe or one-sided pain, faintness, marked dizziness, fever, chills, or feeling suddenly very unwell. These symptoms can signal significant blood loss or infection and need prompt assessment. Contact your care team promptly if bleeding or pain is not settling, or if you are worried that pregnancy tissue has not passed.

Ask whether you need a follow-up scan, how long bleeding may continue, which treatment options fit your situation, and what symptoms should prompt a same-day review. You can also ask when it is safe to resume intercourse, exercise, or trying for another pregnancy.