Things to consider
Inductions
In the past, just about every miscarriage was treated with a routine operation. It was the view that all miscarriages had the potential to be 'incomplete' (meaning that some of the pregnancy may still be left inside the woman's uterus). The operation was aimed at removing any part of the pregnancy that may have been left behind. However, in many cases, none of the pregnancy was found, with the caregiver making a hindsight diagnosis of a 'complete miscarriage'. This routine management meant that many women underwent an operation unnecessarily, being put at needless risk for complications from the surgery or anaesthesia. Possible complications could include infection, excessive bleeding or damage to the cervix and uterus.
Today, depending on the woman's and caregiver's preferences, there tends to be a more of a 'wait and see' approach (called 'expectant management'). This is particularly the case when the miscarriage happens during the first 12 to 13 weeks of the pregnancy. It is also more likely that the caregiver will presume the miscarriage is 'complete', if the bleeding settles and there are no signs if infection during the days and weeks later. In some cases they will order an ultrasound to check if the miscarriage is 'incomplete'.
For the woman, the choice to miscarry naturally, or to have an operation, is still a very individual decision. Allowing nature to take its course gives the woman's body time to deal with the miscarriage and pass her baby, placenta and membranes in her own time. However, while some women prefer to miscarry at home, others feel uncomfortable carrying a baby that has died. A few will also be nervous about complications that may possibly develop.
Up to 80% of women who miscarry during the first 13 weeks of pregnancy will not require any medical intervention. However, 20% of women may experience excessive bleeding, or an infection a few days or weeks later, if the miscarriage is
'incomplete'