What should you know about removal of a retained placenta?

Removal of a retained placenta is a medical procedure used when placental tissue remains in the womb after birth or pregnancy loss and does not pass safely on its own. The team chooses an approach based on bleeding, examination findings, timing and your overall condition.

The placenta normally separates and leaves the uterus after delivery. If part or all of it remains, the uterus may not contract as expected, which can lead to ongoing bleeding or infection. Assessment may include an examination, monitoring, blood tests or an ultrasound.

Treatment can involve observation in selected circumstances, medicine to help the uterus contract, or removal by a procedure. The clinician will explain the planned anaesthetic, what happens during treatment and how tissue will be handled.

Follow the maternity team’s instructions and report the amount of bleeding, clots, pain, fever, dizziness and unpleasant-smelling discharge. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina until your clinician says it is appropriate. After a procedure, take prescribed medicines as directed and attend the follow-up arranged for you. Surgical management may be discussed when tissue remains after miscarriage or pregnancy loss.

Seek urgent maternity or emergency care for heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, faintness, marked weakness, severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, confusion or foul-smelling discharge. These signs can indicate significant blood loss or infection and need prompt assessment.

How much tissue is thought to remain? Why is this treatment recommended now? Which anaesthetic will be used? What bleeding and pain are expected afterwards? Which symptoms mean I should return immediately, and when is follow-up needed?