Who is Dilation and Curettage (D&C) Procedure For?

Dilation and Curettage (D&C) is commonly performed for individuals experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, incomplete miscarriage, or suspected uterine abnormalities. It is often recommended for those with:

• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding after menopause
• Suspected uterine polyps or fibroids
• Incomplete miscarriage or retained pregnancy tissue
• Endometrial hyperplasia or suspected uterine cancer
• Uterine lining evaluation in cases of infertility or recurrent miscarriage

Key Tag Aways for D&C Procedure

• Type of Procedure: Surgical (Dilation and Curettage)
• Duration: About 15 to 30 minutes
• Anesthesia Used: General anesthesia, local anesthesia, or sedation
• Recovery Time: Light activities can typically be resumed within 1 to 2 days; full recovery usually occurs within

What Are the Indications of the Dilation and Curettage Procedure?

Dilation and Curettage (D&C) is performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in gynecology. Common indications include:

Diagnostic Indications

• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Helps determine the cause of heavy, prolonged, or irregular menstrual bleeding.
• Postmenopausal Bleeding: Assists in investigating unexplained bleeding after menopause.
• Endometrial Polyps: Diagnose abnormal tissue growths in the uterine lining.
• Endometrial Hyperplasia: Evaluates a thickened uterine lining that may lead to cancer.
• Infertility Investigations: Examines the uterine cavity for abnormalities that may cause infertility.

Therapeutic Indications

• Post-Miscarriage Tissue Removal: Clears retained tissue to prevent infection.
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: Treats unmanageable heavy bleeding.
• Polyp Removal: Removes uterine polyps causing symptoms or fertility issues.
• Endometrial Hyperplasia Treatment: Manages non-cancerous uterine lining overgrowth.
• Incomplete Abortion: Removes remaining pregnancy tissue after an incomplete abortion.
• Unexplained Pelvic Pain: Part of broader diagnostic procedures.

How to Prepare for a D&C Procedure?

• Discuss your medical history, medications, and allergies with your doctor.
• Understand the procedure's purpose and risks.
• Undergo preoperative tests if required (e.g., blood work, ultrasound).
• Follow fasting instructions if general anesthesia will be used.
• Arrange transportation if sedated or under anesthesia.
• Wear comfortable clothing and bring necessary documents and medication lists.
• Plan for rest and avoid work or strenuous activity for 24-48 hours post-procedure.

What Are the Steps Involved in a D&C Procedure?

• Pre-Procedure Checks: Include physical exam, consent, and anesthesia plan.
• Anesthesia: General, local, or spinal anesthesia is administered.
• Cervical Dilation: Gradual widening of the cervix using dilators.
• Curettage:
  • Sharp Curettage: Uses a curette to scrape the uterine lining.
  • Suction Curettage: A vacuum aspiration is used to remove tissue.
• Hemostasis: Bleeding is managed, and the procedure is completed.
• Recovery: Observation until anesthesia wears off, followed by discharge with instructions.

Therapeutic D&C Use Cases

• Miscarriage management
• First-trimester abortion
• Treatment of molar pregnancy
• Retained pregnancy tissue
• Excessive or irregular vaginal bleeding

Who Performs a Dilation and Curettage Procedure?

• Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB-GYNs)
• Gynecologic Surgeons

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Risks and Complications of Dilation and Curettage

Although D&C is generally safe, possible complications include:

• Infection
• Heavy or prolonged bleeding
• Uterine perforation (rare)
• Uterine scarring (Asherman's syndrome)
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia
• Incomplete tissue removal

Risk Minimization

• Performed by qualified specialists
• Sterile technique and pre-op evaluations
• Post-op monitoring and follow-ups
• Antibiotic and pain management plans

Seek immediate care for signs of infection, severe pain, or unusual bleeding.

Recovery After a D&C Procedure

• Rest for 1-2 days post-procedure.
• Expect light bleeding or spotting for a few days.
• Use sanitary pads; avoid tampons and douching.
• Avoid sexual intercourse until your doctor advises.
• Resume normal activities gradually after clearance.
• Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled.
• Monitor for warning signs: fever, heavy bleeding, foul discharge, or sharp pain.
• Support emotional recovery if the procedure follows a miscarriage or loss.

Lifestyle Changes After a D&C Surgery

• Take time to rest and recover physically and emotionally.
• Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals for healing.
• Manage pain as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid activities that risk infection (e.g., swimming, intercourse) for a few days.
• Talk to a counselor or support group if dealing with emotional distress.
• Follow your doctor's guidance on family planning and future pregnancies.
• Incorporate gentle physical activity as recovery progresses.
• Reduce stress through relaxation techniques, hobbies, or journaling.