D AND C: WHAT IS IT ?

A dilatation and curettage (D and C) is a very common procedure performed regularly in the United States. It is used as one way to evaluate and treat abnormal uterine bleeding. Dilatation is performed to open and widen the cervix (entrance to the uterus). Curettage is used to sample the lining of the uterus. It is a minor surgery performed with anesthesia in a hospital or outpatient surgery center. The opening of the uterus, called the cervix, is slowly dilated or opened more to allow a spoon-like or a straw-like instrument into the uterus. The lining of the uterus is lightly scraped, or curetted, to get a piece of it. This sample of lining is evaluated for disease.

Some of the reasons for performing a D and C are irregular periods with heavy vaginal bleeding, or having heavy bleeding after childbirth. Removing excess cell or tissue after a miscarriage or an abortion are other reasons. Your healthcare provider would also perform a D and C to remove polyps inside the uterus or to help him or her detect uterine cancer.

Today, an endometrial sampling is often used first, if possible. If the sampling cannot be done easily and safely in the office, a D and C may be done instead. To perform an endometrial sampling, a sample of the inner layer of the uterine wall is removed using a tiny straw-like tube. The test is simple and no anesthesia is needed. Mild pain may occur for a short time after the sample is taken.

Endometrial sampling is also used to check on bleeding after menopause or to find out why a woman is having trouble getting pregnant. Your provider may also want to use an endometrial sampling to check on the outcome of treatment you have received in the past.

After a D and C a woman may have some mild uterine cramping. Your provider usually prescribes pain medication for the discomfort. It is not uncommon to have a small amount of vaginal bleeding for a few days. Most of the time your provider will let you resume your normal activities after a few days.

Women who have had a D and C should not place anything inside the vagina until told by the provider that it is safe. Your period should return the next month, but it may be a little late or early.

Most important after the procedure if you have a fever, increased abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding (saturating 2 or more pads or tampons per hour), or notice a foul smelling vaginal discharge, you need to contact your provider right away.

These tests have become important as more women are getting care for problems that can now easily be identified. As a result, fewer surgeries are necessary each year.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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