Curettage

During a curettage a gynaecologist removes the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. He does this through the use of a thin tube (vacuum-curettage) or scraper (curette) through the vagina and the cervix. The curettage can occur under sedation or general anesthesia. Normally, you will be able to go home the same day.

Advantages of curettage

• Less insecurity compared to waiting.
• Less of a disruption for your daily life.

Disadvantages of curettage

• A curettage is a medical procedure.
• A seldom occurring complication is Asherman’s Syndrome: as a result of this, adhesions develop on the inside of your uterus. These can negatively influence your fertility and have to be removed through an operation at a later stage.
• Sometimes perforation occurs: the tube or the curette goes through the wall of the uterus. Normally, this has no further consequences, but sometimes it is wise to stay in the hospital for an extra night. Often you will get antibiotics.
• Another complication is an incomplete curettage, in case of which a piece of the miscarriage remains behind. This part can also be expelled spontaneously, but it might be necessary to undergo a second curettage.