Discharge Instructions for Hydatidiform Mole

You have been diagnosed with a hydatidiform mole (also called molar pregnancy). A hydatidiform mole is the overgrowth of tissue surrounding a fertilized egg. Because the mole could become cancerous, it is important to have proper treatment as soon as possible. You and your health care provider decided on dilatation and curettage (D&C) to remove the mole. This procedure will remove the abnormal tissue. Here are guidelines to follow at home after the procedure.

Activity

• Take it easy. Avoid strenuous activity and get plenty of rest for 2 days after surgery as directed by your health care provider.

• Return to your normal activities after 48 hours. You may also return to work at that time.

• Don’t drive for 24 hours after the procedure.

Other home care

• Eat a normal diet.

• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for pain, if needed.

• Remember, it’s OK to have bleeding for about a week after the procedure. The amount of bleeding should be similar to what you have during a normal period.

• Don’t have sexual intercourse or use tampons or douches until you see your health care provider for a follow-up appointment. You need to avoid pregnancy for a certain period after the molar pregnancy. It is important that you choose a birth control method.

• Ask for help if you feel depressed. Many women believe they are pregnant for several months before they are diagnosed. The feelings of grief and loss can be overwhelming. Get help if you are feeling sad or if you feel you might harm yourself or others.

Follow-up care

• Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.

• Keep your follow-up appointment with your health care provider. Your health care provider may order follow-up blood tests to make sure that all of the molar pregnancy has been removed and has not become cancerous.