Expectant Management for Incomplete Miscarriage

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Traditionally, an incomplete miscarriage has been treated surgically with dilation and curettage (D&C). This practice is based on the concern that an incomplete miscarriage, in which a woman's uterus retains tissue, can lead to excessive bleeding or infection. But expectant management is a safe treatment option for many early, uncomplicated miscarriages. If you choose expectant management, your doctor will watch you closely for problems during miscarriage.

Expectant management may be a treatment choice for you if you:

  • Are having a first-trimester miscarriage.
  • Have stable blood pressure and a stable heart rate.
  • Are not bleeding excessively and are not anemic.
  • Do not have a fever or other signs of infection.
  • Are not experiencing a high level of pain.
  • Can keep frequent medical and blood work appointments during and after your miscarriage.

Some women choose medical treatment or surgical treatment (D&C) instead of expectant management. Expectant management takes longer for the miscarriage to resolve. So it takes more time for bleeding to stop.

In some cases a miscarriage that is being treated with expectant management will still require surgical treatment, such as when excessive bleeding occurs.

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: April 18, 2011
Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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