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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Retained products of conception at 8 months postpartum? Can this effect my fertility?

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    Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Women's Health
    I had retained placenta & manual removal at birth. At 7 weeks postpartum I was admitted to hospital with an infection and ultrasound showed RPOC. I was given IV antibiotics. Ultrasound at 3 & 7 months pp showed the RPOC was still there- looked to be avascular. The gynaecologist has it “should” be okay to just leave it. I can't seem to get any answers to whether this is an issue for fertility returning/future pregnancies? Any possible long term consequences such as calcification/scar tissue forming?
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    Thanks

    Dr David Moore

    Gynaecologist, Gynaecologist - Infertility (IVF) Specialist, Obstetrician

    David received a solid foundation to training in tertiary obstetric units and has developed skills in the management of complex and high-risk pregnancies and deliveries. … View Profile

    Hi there,

    It seems very unusual to have avascular RPOC visible on US at 7 months pp.  Assuming a beta-hCG was done and is negative, I'd suggest that a hysteroscopy is needed to see what's actually going on, and remove any residual tissue.  This is when a small surgical telescopic camera is passed through the cervix (under anaesthesia) to directly visualise the inside of the uterus.

    Untreated, I would be concerned about possible long-term fertility implications.  However, it would be best to get a full history and examination, including your current breastfeeding status and menstrual pattern.

    I hope this information helps.
    Regards,
    David.

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