Dilatation and curettage

Dilatation and Curettage (D&C) is a minor surgical procedure often performed on women to diagnose and treat certain conditions, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, or to clear the uterine lining after a miscarriage or abortion.

Procedure

In a D&C, the cervix is dilated using small instruments or a medication. Then, a curette is used to remove uterine tissue. These samples are sent to the lab for examination.

Reasons for the Procedure

D&C is used to diagnose or treat conditions such as:

• Heavy bleeding
• Abnormal bleeding
• Endometrial polyps
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine cancer
• Miscarriage
• Abortion

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with D&C. These may include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Perforation of the uterus
• Scarring of the uterus
• Reaction to anesthesia

After the Procedure

After a D&C, some pain and bleeding are normal. Patients are usually able to go home the same day and can return to normal activities within a few days.

See Also

• Hysteroscopy
• Endometrial biopsy
• Menstrual cycle
• Uterus

References

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
• Mayo Clinic
• WebMD

Dilatation and curettage Resources
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