Recovery after a D and C?

[gherkins]

Hi,

I live overseas and our nanny has just had a miscarriage. It seems she was bleeding for a few days, but got an infection, because she suddenly came down with very high fever/chills and pain. She ended up being treated in A&E and was given a D&C. She is currently on an antibiotic drip and will probably be kept in for around 48 hours.

My question is this: How long would a recovery from this type of procedure normally take?

I know she will be anxious to get back to work asap, but I think it's very important she rests and does not overdo it. I know she won't pass on the doctors' advice and will want to come back the minute she's discharged from hospital.

If anybody has suffered from this type of infection, and had a D&C and subsequent drip, how many days did you need off work, and how long was it until you felt able to do tasks like hoovering/cleaning again?

I want to make sure she doesn't rush her recovery, that's all.

Any pointers gratefully received. Thanks.

hugely variable. Physical recovery could be delayed if things do not go smoothly. the psychological recovery will take longer still.

Thanks Bonzo.

Do you know what kind of complications she could expect if things don't go smoothly?

(Background: She hid her pregnancy and miscarriage from me, and I had to basically march her to A&E when I noticed her shivering uncontrollably. So I'm worried she might keep further health problems from me. I'm purely interested in making sure she gets all the medical help she needs).

Obviously the psychological recovery is a whole other issue.

D & C is no guarantee that all pregnancy products are removed. if she goes on to have retained products another / continued infection is possible. Rarely the instruments to perform the D& C perforate the uterus. It is repairable but is open surgery rather than going through the cervix, therefore longer recovery. I had a week off after my straightforward procedure following miscarriage. But I do a very sedentary job and only 2 days a week. I was OK emotionally at the time but have been quite sorry for myself recently. The psychological recovery can take a long time and be very stop start. If she is sad about the miscarriage she might feel very emotional looking after other children. I can deal with my toddler but cannot face babies at the moment.

Ah Bonzo, very sorry to hear about your loss . It must have been very difficult for you. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience.

It sounds like she'll need several days off at least, and I'll have to ask her to tell me if and when she needs more time. It seems we'll just have to play things by ear.