Expectant management for incomplete miscarriage
Traditionally, an incomplete miscarriage has been treated surgically with dilation and curettage (D&C). This practise is based on the concern that an incomplete miscarriage, in which a woman's uterus retains tissue, can lead to excessive bleeding or infection. Recent research, however, supports the use of close observation, called expectant management, as a treatment option for many early, uncomplicated miscarriages.1
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.
Expectant management requires regular monitoring by a health professional.2
Some women choose medical treatment or surgical treatment (D&C) instead of expectant management. Expectant management takes longer for the miscarriage to resolve and thus 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 develops.
| Author: | Kathe Gallagher, MSW Carrie Henley | Last Updated: June 28, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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