You have been diagnosed with a hydatidiform mole (also called molar pregnancy). It's the overgrowth of tissue around a fertilized egg. The mole could become cancer. So it's important to have treatment as soon as possible. You and your doctor have decided on a dilatation and curettage (D&C) procedure to remove the mole. This procedure will remove the abnormal tissue. Here are guidelines to follow at home after the procedure.
Activity
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Take it easy. Don't do any strenuous activity. Get plenty of rest for
2 days after surgery, or as directed by your doctor. -
Return to your normal activities after
48 hours. You may also go back to work at that time. -
Don’t drive for
24 hours after the procedure. -
Talk to your doctor about when it's safe to do activities such as exercise, housework, and sports.
Other home care
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Eat a normal diet.
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Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for pain, as directed by your doctor.
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It's common to have bleeding for about a week after the procedure. The amount of bleeding should be similar to a normal period.
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Don't have sex or use tampons or douches until your doctor says it's okay.
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Don't get pregnant for a year after the molar pregnancy. It's important that you choose a reliable birth control method.
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Ask for help if you feel sad or depressed. Many women believe they're pregnant for several months before they're diagnosed. The feelings of grief and loss can be overwhelming. Get help if you're feeling sad or depressed, or if you feel you might harm yourself or others. If you are experiencing a crisis or just need someone to talk to, call or text 988. You will be connected to a trained counselor you can talk to. There's also an online chat option. You can also call Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255). Also, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free and available 24/7.
Follow-up care
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Make a follow-up appointment as directed by your doctor.
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Keep your follow-up appointments with your doctor. Your doctor may order follow-up blood tests. This is to make sure that all of the molar pregnancy has been removed and has not become cancer.
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Follow-up blood tests for pregnancy hormones will be done at regular intervals for several months after a molar pregnancy until the levels return to normal.
When to contact your doctor
Contact your doctor right away if you have:
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Bleeding that soaks more than one sanitary pad in 1 hour.
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Severe belly pain or cramps.
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A fever of
100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher, or as directed by your doctor. -
Chills.
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Vaginal discharge that has a bad odor.
