Understanding Miscarriage: During a Miscarriage

No two miscarriages are alike. Because of this, your doctor will talk with you about what's best for your recovery. If you're in good health, your body may be allowed to miscarry on its own. But depending on the miscarriage, having a D&C (dilatation and curettage) may be needed. This simple procedure returns the uterus to its state before pregnancy.

The thickened lining of the uterus passes from the body during a miscarriage.

If Your Body Miscarries

As your body miscarries, you may pass both blood and tissue. Follow up with your doctor as often as he or she suggests. To prevent infection, do not use tampons or place anything in your vagina at this time.

Normal Bleeding Pattern

Most miscarriages start with bleeding. Blood flow may increase with time and the amount of cramping. At some point, your cramps may get very strong. This is normal. Cramping widens the passage (cervix) that any tissue from the uterus must pass through to leave your body.

Tissue Samples

Your doctor may ask for a sample of the tissue for lab testing. This is to make sure that the cells being shed from your body are normal.

If You Have a D&C

You may have a D&C if you are bleeding heavily, are in severe pain, or if all the tissue does not pass from the uterus.

Understanding the Procedure

If you will be more at ease, your partner may be able to stay with you during the procedure. When you arrive, you may be given medications to help you relax. Before the D&C, an anesthetic may be applied to the cervix, or you may be given anesthesia to help you sleep. Then your doctor widens the cervix and removes the tissue and blood lining the uterus. The tissue is sent for lab tests.

Going Home

After resting briefly, you should be able to go home. You may be given medications to reduce pain or the risk of infection. Take the medications as directed, and be sure to follow up with your doctor in about 2 weeks.