The Basics
Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure that your doctor uses to diagnose and treat a number of female medical conditions. This procedure involves expanding (dilating) your cervix (the lower part of the uterus and separates the vagina from the uterus), and then inserting an instrument called a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) into the uterus to remove tissue.
Your doctor may use this procedure to:
- investigate the cause of abnormal bleeding
- investigate the cause of severe menstrual pain
- investigate an abnormal Pap test result
- remove cervical or endometrial polyps
- remove benign tumors
- remove remaining tissue in the uterus after a miscarriage or abortion
You and your doctor may decide when this procedure is needed.
A picture of a uterus.
Risks and precautions
In general, surgery and the use of anesthesia come with some risks that are associated with factors like your health condition and what the surgery involves. Side effects are very rare but can include trouble breathing, reactions to the anesthetic, bleeding, infection, scarring, and death.
D&C is usually a straightforward and safe procedure. However, there are some risks of complications or side effects, including:
- tearing or puncturing of the uterus
- damage to the cervix
- infection
- injury to other pelvic organs (e.g., intestines, bladder, blood vessels)
- scar tissue formation in the uterus, which may make getting pregnant more difficult - it may also lead to abnormal or painful menstrual periods
Get immediate medical assistance if you experience any of these complications or side effects:
- fever
- heavy bleeding (changing sanitary pads every hour) or light bleeding lasting more than 2 weeks
- severe cramping
- foul-smelling vaginal discharge
It is important that you understand all the risks of complications and side effects of the procedure, and what you or your doctor can do to avoid them. Make sure that your doctor is aware of all your concerns.
Some people may experience complications and side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptoms that worry you after your procedure.
Before the test
It is important that you fully understand what the procedure involves beforehand. Ask your doctor to explain the risks, benefits, and drawbacks of the procedure, and don't be shy to probe further until you are comfortable with your doctor's responses.
You may not be able to eat or drink before the procedure; follow the timing that your doctor recommended.
If you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter (non-prescription) medications, supplements, or herbal products, make sure you inform your doctor or pharmacist. Ask them whether it is necessary for you to stop taking any of these medications and products before the procedure. It is also important to tell them if you have allergies to certain medications or have certain medical conditions.
Plan to have someone drive you home after the procedure.