Post-Miscarriage Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice

Miscarriage

Hello Doctor: I had a natural miscarriage on April 6, and the doctor did not prescribe any medication for me.
I went for an ultrasound on April 15, and they said everything was cleared out.
However, it has been 18 days now, and every time I have a bowel movement, I notice light brown blood.
Should I go back to the hospital for an examination? Thank you.

Hua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/23

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I had a miscarriage on April 6th, and the doctor did not prescribe any medication for me.
On April 15th, I went to the hospital for an ultrasound, and they said everything was cleared out.
However, it has been 18 days now, and every time I have a bowel movement, I notice light brown blood.
Should I go back to the hospital for an examination? Answer: If you are experiencing a significant amount of light brown blood, you should return to the hospital for an evaluation.

Reply Date: 2017/04/23

More Info

After experiencing a miscarriage, it is crucial to monitor your body for any unusual symptoms or changes. In your case, you mentioned that you had a natural miscarriage on April 6, and a follow-up ultrasound on April 15 indicated that everything was cleared out. However, you are still experiencing light brown discharge after bowel movements, which has persisted for 18 days.

It is not uncommon for women to experience some light spotting or discharge following a miscarriage, as the body takes time to return to its normal state. The brown color of the discharge typically indicates old blood, which can be a normal part of the healing process. However, there are several factors to consider when determining whether you should seek medical advice.

1. Duration and Consistency of Symptoms: While light spotting can be normal, it is essential to monitor how long it lasts and whether it changes in color, consistency, or volume. If the discharge becomes heavier, bright red, or is accompanied by pain, fever, or foul odor, it could indicate an infection or retained tissue, which would require immediate medical attention.

2. Associated Symptoms: Pay attention to any additional symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour), or signs of infection (such as fever, chills, or unusual discharge), you should seek medical attention promptly.

3. Emotional and Psychological Well-being: Miscarriage can also have emotional and psychological effects. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, it may be beneficial to speak with a healthcare provider or a mental health professional who specializes in reproductive health.

4. Follow-Up Care: Since you had a follow-up ultrasound that indicated everything was clear, it is still advisable to keep your healthcare provider informed about your ongoing symptoms. They may recommend further evaluation to ensure that there are no complications, such as retained products of conception or an infection.

5. When to Seek Help: Given that it has been 18 days since your miscarriage and you are still experiencing discharge, it would be prudent to contact your healthcare provider. They may want to perform another ultrasound or a physical examination to ensure that your recovery is progressing as expected.

In summary, while some light brown discharge can be normal after a miscarriage, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and peace of mind. Your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking medical advice when in doubt is always a wise decision.

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