Retained products of conception (RPOC) refers to fetal or placental tissue that remains in your uterus after a pregnancy. RPOC is more common when a pregnancy ends early. RPOC can lead to bleeding, infection and other problems. Medication or minor surgery can treat RPOC.

It can be difficult to diagnose RPOC based on symptoms alone. The symptoms may be similar to other postpartum health issues. The following exams and tests can confirm a diagnosis of RPOC.

Blood and tissue tests:

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) test: This test measures the amount of the hCG hormone in your blood. The placenta produces this hormone. RPOC may cause high hCG levels after pregnancy if pieces of the placenta are still in your uterus.

Endometrial biopsy: During an endometrial biopsy, your healthcare provider removes a small piece of tissue from your uterus. They examine the tissue under a microscope. The presence of chorionic villi (placental tissue cells) means there is still placental tissue in your uterus. This procedure is rarely done. More commonly, your provider will look for tissue during a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure. This procedure is also a treatment option for RPOC.

Imaging exams:

Transvaginal ultrasound: This imaging exam uses an ultrasound probe in the vagina to check for an enlarged or thickened uterine lining. It also looks for tissue masses in your uterus.

Color Doppler ultrasound: This imaging exam provides more detail than a transvaginal ultrasound. It shows how blood flows through your body. It can show whether extra tissue in the uterus still has a blood supply. A blood supply could indicate placental tissue still attached to the wall of the uterus.

Hysteroscopy: During a hysteroscopy, your healthcare provider inserts a thin, lighted tube into your vagina. They examine the inside of your cervix and vagina for abnormal tissue or other problems.