What to expect from surgical management of miscarriage for retained placenta

Retained placenta or retained products of conception means tissue remains inside the uterus after a pregnancy ends. It may cause ongoing bleeding, pelvic pain, fever, or discharge, although symptoms vary. Ultrasound and examination can help guide the decision. Surgical management usually uses suction or gentle removal through the cervix, with pain relief or anaesthesia selected for your situation. The removed tissue may be examined, and the clinician will check that the uterus is empty enough for healing.

Tell the team about medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, and pregnancy possibility. Follow fasting instructions and arrange transport when anaesthesia is planned. Afterward, cramps and light bleeding may be expected. Use pads, take prescribed medicines as directed, avoid inserting anything into the vagina until advised, and attend follow-up. Ask when you can resume normal activity and whether an ultrasound or pregnancy test is needed.

Contact your care team for increasing pain, persistent fever, foul-smelling discharge, or bleeding that is becoming heavier rather than easing. Get emergency help for fainting, marked weakness, severe pain, or very heavy bleeding. These signs can indicate infection, blood loss, or tissue still remaining in the uterus.

Ask what imaging showed, which removal technique and anaesthesia are planned, and how the tissue will be checked. Confirm the expected bleeding pattern, follow-up date, and symptoms that should prompt immediate contact.