Why is D & C done?

Dilation and curettage can either be used to diagnose or to treat a uterine condition.

To diagnose a condition: Your doctor may recommend a type of D & C called endometrial sampling to diagnose a condition if:

• You have abnormal uterine bleeding
• You experience bleeding after menopause
• Your doctor discovers abnormal endometrial cells

To perform the test: A tissue sample will be collected from the lining of your uterus and sent for a lab test that checks for:

• Endometrial hyperplasia
• Uterine polyps
• Uterine cancer

To treat a condition: When performing a therapeutic D & C, your doctor will remove the contents from inside your uterus, not just a small tissue sample. This may be done to:

• Clear out tissues that stay in the uterus after a miscarriage or abortion
• Remove a molar pregnancy
• Treat heavy bleeding after delivery
• Remove cervical or uterine polyps

Dilation and curettage may be performed along with another procedure called a hysteroscopy. In a hysteroscopy, your doctor inserts a slim instrument with a light and camera on the end into your vagina, through your cervix and up into your uterus.Your doctor then views the lining of your uterus on a screen, noting any areas that look abnormal, making sure there aren't any polyps and take tissue samples as needed. Certain uterine polyps and fibroid tumours can also be removed.

What to expect from D & C?

For dilation and curettage, you'll receive anaesthesia. The choice of anaesthesia depends on the reason for the D & C and your medical history.

You should be able to resume most everyday activities within a day or two.

Your uterus will take time to build a new lining after D & C, so your next period may not come on time. If you had dilation and curettage because of a miscarriage, and you want to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about any queries you may have.

From finding the right D & C doctor to the right D & C hospital that suits your needs, CureConsult is here to help you every step of the way.

What are the potential complications associated with dilation and curettage?

Dilation and curettage is usually very safe, and the complications are quite rare. However, there are some possible risks. These include:

• Perforation of the uterus
• Damage to the cervix
• Scar tissue on the uterine wall
• Infection