"In June 2007, my wife was in significant ..."

What could be improved

In June 2007, my wife was in significant pain two days after she tested positive for pregnancy. We went to the A&E at Kingston Hospital and she was diagnosed as having a miscarriage. She was told to rest and that things would become normal over time. Two days later, she was in severe pain again and was bleeding profusely and we rushed back to the A&E. The doctor told us that this was normal after a miscarriage and that the pain would subside over a couple of weeks. My wife was given a painkiller to relieve the pain. When I asked if a D&C would be done to remove all the product from the uterus I was told that my wife would bleed for a few weeks and that the product would come out naturally (over a few weeks). I was very clearly told that it is not part of the "protocol" to conduct D&C procedures for miscarriages. I would like to ask the following questions:

1. Is the lady expected to bleed for weeks on end to fulfill a "natural" process?

2. Is the lady expected to undergo severe pain for weeks and not be able to go about her normal life?

3. What happens if an infection sets in (which did happen in her case)?

4. What happens if due to part of the product still being lodged in the womb, the lady has a chance of becoming sterile?

5. Why couldn't a D&C be done to remove all the products and ensure that the lady stops bleeding and stops experiencing intense pain?

My wife and I are deeply saddened and upset about the treatment meted out to us and the manner in which this issue was handled. We feel completely let down and do not have much faith left in the NHS after this experience.