Dilation and Curettage (D&C)
A dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure that is done to remove tissue from inside the uterus. During a D&C, the cervix is opened gently. Then a scraping or suction instrument is passed through the cervix and into the uterus to remove tissue from the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
A D&C may be done to:
- Get a tissue sample for testing.
- Remove tissue that may be causing abnormal vaginal bleeding. The tissue can then be examined for any abnormalities.
A D&C is usually done in a hospital without requiring an overnight stay. Pain medicine is given before the procedure. Many women choose to have a general anesthetic that makes them unconscious during the procedure.
Why is dilation and curettage (D&C) done?
Dilation and curettage (D&C) may be used to:
- Find and treat bleeding problems.
- Control sudden, heavy vaginal bleeding that is causing heavy blood loss or a low number of red blood cells (anemia).
- Get a tissue sample for testing. For example, a postmenopausal woman who has vaginal bleeding may be tested for signs of endometrial cancer.
How is dilation and curettage (D&C) done?
Your doctor may give you medicine to make you sleep or help you relax. You may also get medicine to help with pain. First, the doctor inserts a tool into your vagina to widen it. Then another tool is used to open the lower part of your uterus. This is called your cervix. Next, the doctor gently scrapes tissue from the uterus with a different tool. This tool may be attached to a vacuum to help remove the tissue.
After dilation and curettage: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have chest pain, are short of breath, or cough up blood.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have bright red vaginal bleeding that soaks one or more pads in an hour, or you have large clots.
- You have vaginal discharge that increases in amount or smells bad.
- You are sick to your stomach or cannot drink fluids.
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You cannot pass stools or gas.
- You have symptoms of a blood clot in your leg (called a deep vein thrombosis), such as:
- Pain in your calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
- Redness and swelling in your leg.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the area.
- Pus draining from the area.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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