Expert: Dr. Harriet Johnson - 9/13/2009

Question
I have had 3 abortions in the past.  One in 1996, 2001 and 2003, all went well with no complications.  I am now 34 with a healthy 3 year old.  I just had a sonogram because I was 8 weeks pregnant only to find there is no heartbeat.  My doc is leaning toward letting the fetus pass naturally which she says can take up to a month.  She isn't too concerned about toxemia or the high blood pressure I already have, for the 1st time in my life, so I know my body is starting to react to the dead tissue.  I work full-time and need to be back at work soon.  I want to try for another child and am leaning toward the D&C to get life moving forward again.  I know the risk of doing the procedure is never being able to have another child, but the risks of letting this drag out scares me too.  I would like another professionals input and suggestions on this please....

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

The risk of complication with a D&C is much smaller than the risks of high blood pressure and toxemia. If I was your doctor I would opt for a D&C given the circumstances but without knowing your medical history it is not my call. I do believe letting is pass naturally is much more traumatic. However go with what you want to do and what you feel is best for you. Good luck with what ever you choose to do.