Dilation & Curettage (D&C) Compassionate Gynecologic Care
Dilation and curettage, commonly called a D&C, is a gynecologic procedure used to remove tissue from inside the uterus. Depending on your individual situation, a D&C may be recommended to evaluate abnormal uterine bleeding, obtain a tissue sample, remove tissue after a miscarriage, or treat certain uterine conditions.
Understanding your options
Every recommendation begins with understanding your symptoms, medical history, goals, and the reason a procedure may be helpful.
What is a dilation and curettage?
A dilation and curettage is a procedure in which the cervix is opened, or dilated, so a healthcare professional can access the inside of the uterus. Tissue from the uterine lining may then be removed using appropriate surgical instruments or suction.
Dilation
The cervix is gently opened enough to allow access to the uterus.
Uterine access
The physician accesses the uterine cavity using the technique appropriate for the procedure.
Tissue removal
Tissue may be removed for treatment, diagnosis, or both.
Why might someone need a D&C?
A D&C can be used for several different gynecologic and reproductive-health situations. The reason for recommending the procedure depends on the patient's symptoms, examination, imaging, age, reproductive history, and other clinical factors.
In some situations, a D&C is primarily diagnostic. In others, removing tissue can also help manage a condition.
A D&C may sometimes be used to evaluate or treat certain causes of heavy, prolonged, or irregular uterine bleeding.
Tissue obtained during the procedure may be sent to a laboratory for microscopic evaluation.
In selected circumstances, a D&C may be used after a miscarriage or pregnancy loss when uterine tissue needs to be removed.
When pregnancy tissue remains inside the uterus after a miscarriage or delivery, treatment options may include a procedure such as D&C depending on the circumstances.
Certain uterine abnormalities may require tissue removal or further evaluation.
A D&C can serve different purposes
The same procedure can sometimes be used for diagnosis, treatment, or both. Your physician will explain why it is being recommended and what alternatives may be appropriate for your situation.
Diagnostic D&C
Tissue removed from the uterus can be examined by a pathologist. This may help evaluate certain causes of abnormal bleeding or other changes involving the uterine lining.
Therapeutic D&C
In some circumstances, removing tissue from inside the uterus can be part of treatment for a specific condition.
Diagnosis & treatment
Depending on the situation, a D&C may provide information about the uterine lining while also removing tissue that is contributing to symptoms.
Your physician will review your medical history, symptoms, medications, allergies, and relevant reproductive history.
Pregnancy status and the reason for the procedure will be considered before treatment.
You may receive specific instructions regarding medications, eating, drinking, and preparation before the procedure.
If anesthesia or sedation is used, you may need someone available to take you home afterward.
What happens before a D&C?
Preparation depends on why the procedure is being performed and what type of anesthesia or sedation is planned.
Your physician will explain the procedure, expected benefits, potential risks, alternatives, and any instructions you should follow before arriving.
What happens during a D&C?
The exact steps depend on your medical situation and the technique selected by your physician.
Preparation
You will be positioned and prepared for the procedure. Anesthesia or sedation may be provided depending on the planned approach.
Cervical dilation
The cervix is gently opened to provide access to the uterine cavity.
Removal of tissue
The physician removes tissue from the uterus using the selected surgical technique.
Laboratory evaluation
When tissue is collected for diagnostic purposes, it may be sent to a laboratory for examination.
Recovery
After the procedure, you will be monitored while you recover from the procedure and any anesthesia or sedation.
What can recovery after a D&C be like?
Recovery varies depending on the reason for the procedure, anesthesia used, and your individual health. Some people experience cramping or light vaginal bleeding afterward.
Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions about activity, medications, follow-up, and when to contact the office.
Understanding the potential risks
Dilation and curettage is commonly performed, but like any medical procedure it has potential risks. Your physician will discuss the risks that are relevant to your particular situation.
Bleeding can occur after the procedure and is usually monitored as part of recovery.
Infection is a possible complication of procedures involving the reproductive tract.
Rarely, an instrument can create an opening in the uterus.
Injury to the cervix is another uncommon potential complication.
Scar tissue can occasionally develop inside the uterus after certain uterine procedures.
If anesthesia or sedation is used, additional risks may apply.
- Heavy or worsening vaginal bleeding
- Severe or increasing abdominal or pelvic pain
- Fever or chills
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Other symptoms that concern you after the procedure
Is a D&C always necessary?
Not necessarily. The appropriate treatment depends on the reason for the procedure and your individual circumstances.
Dilation & Curettage FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about D&C procedures.
What does D&C stand for? +
Why would a doctor recommend a D&C? +
Is a D&C a surgery? +
Is a D&C painful? +
How long does a D&C take? +
Will tissue from a D&C be tested? +
Can a D&C be performed after a miscarriage? +
How much bleeding is normal after a D&C? +
When should I call my doctor after a D&C? +
Can a D&C affect future fertility? +
Can I get pregnant after a D&C? +
What is the difference between D&C and hysteroscopy? +
Have questions about a D&C?
Talk with our team about your symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and what to expect from your care.