Why is this procedure done?
The uterus or womb is the organ where a baby grows when you are pregnant. You get rid of the lining of the uterus each time you have your period. Sometimes, the lining needs to be scraped out. Doctors call the procedure a dilation and curettage or a D and C. You may need to have a D and C to: ‚
- Remove polyps from the uterus
- Remove a birth control device
- Remove a part of the placenta after you have a baby if part of the placenta does not come out by itself
- Empty the womb after a miscarried pregnancy
- Check the lining of the womb for diseases or infection
- Understand why you are having heavy periods or bleeding that is not normal. You may be having pain in your pelvis or your uterus may be larger than a normal uterus.
Dilation means the opening to the womb or cervix is stretched. Curettage is the scraping of the lining. ‚
What will the results be?
You will have less bleeding and a lower chance of infection. Your doctor will better understand what is causing your signs. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding like Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about the drugs you take.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
- You may or may not be asleep for this procedure.
- Once you are in the operating room, you will be given a drug to make you sleepy. This drug will also help you stay pain free during the surgery. The staff will put an I.V. in your arm to give you fluids and drugs.
- Your doctor will tell you to lie on your back with your feet in foot holders.
- Your doctor will clean your vagina and cervix with a special soap.
- The doctor puts a special tool called a speculum into your vagina. The speculum helps keep your vagina open so the doctor can see. The doctor gently stretches the opening to your uterus, the cervix.
- The doctor will use a scoop-shaped tool called a curette to scrape out the lining of your womb.
- The procedure takes about 10 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room and the staff will watch you closely. You may be sent home after the procedure.
- You may have some cramping. Your doctor may give you drugs for cramping.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain
- Prevent infection
What problems could happen?
- Harm to the cervix
- Scarring of the lining of the uterus
- Infection
- Bleeding
- A hole in the uterus from the tools used during the procedure
Where can I learn more?
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ‚
http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq062.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20120217T1424304657 ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Dilatation-and-curettage-(DC)/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚