Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a surgical procedure to remove tissue from inside the uterus. It is performed by dilating the cervix and using a special instrument to scrape the uterine lining. D&C is used to diagnose and treat certain uterine conditions, such as abnormal uterine bleeding, fibroids, polyps, hormonal imbalances, or uterine cancer. It is also used to remove tissue in the uterus during or after a miscarriage or abortion or to remove small pieces of placenta after childbirth. D&C might be combined with another procedure called hysteroscopy, where a slim instrument with a light and camera on the end is inserted into the vagina, through the cervix and into the uterus.
D&C is considered a safe and convenient way to end an early pregnancy. It is the most common method of early abortion. However, it can lead to rare complications such as Ashermans syndrome, which happens most often when the D&C is done after a miscarriage or delivery. This can lead to unusual, absent or painful menstrual cycles, future miscarriages, and infertility.
Before a D&C, a complete medical history is taken, and the patient signs a consent form. The patient will receive anesthesia, which depends on the procedure needed and the patients medical history. During the procedure, the patient lies on their back with their legs in stirrups, and the doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina and holds the cervix in place with a clamp. The D&C involves two main steps: dilation of the cervix and curettage, which is the scraping of the uterine wall and removal of tissue.
If you suspect you are pregnant, have a history of bleeding disorders, or are taking any blood-thinning drugs, it is important to inform your doctor before the procedure. After the procedure, patients may experience cramping, bleeding, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication.
