D&C

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D&C

Dilation and Curettage (D&C) is a minor surgical procedure performed to remove tissue from the uterus. It is often used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, depending on the patient’s condition.

What Happens During a D&C?

  1. Preparation:

    • Anesthesia: The procedure is typically done under local, regional, or general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.
    • Cervical Dilation: The cervix is gradually dilated using medications or dilators to allow access to the uterus.

  2. Curettage:

    • A thin instrument (curette) is inserted into the uterus to gently scrape or suction out uterine tissue.

  3. Completion:

    • The collected tissue may be sent to a lab for analysis if required (e.g., to check for abnormalities or confirm a miscarriage).

Reasons for a D&C

  1. Diagnostic Purposes:

    • To investigate abnormal uterine bleeding.
    • To diagnose uterine conditions, such as fibroids, polyps, or cancer.
    • To confirm the presence of certain reproductive conditions, like endometrial hyperplasia.

  2. Therapeutic Purposes:

    • To remove remaining tissue after a miscarriage or abortion.
    • To treat heavy or prolonged bleeding.
    • To clear out the uterine lining in cases of incomplete miscarriage or molar pregnancy.
    • To remove placental fragments after childbirth.

Procedure Duration

  • The procedure typically lasts 10-20 minutes, but patients may need a few hours at the clinic or hospital for preparation and recovery.

Post-Procedure Recovery

  1. Physical Recovery:

    • Mild cramping and light bleeding may occur for a few days.
    • Most women can resume normal activities within a day or two.

  2. Follow-Up Care:

    • Avoid inserting anything into the vagina (e.g., tampons, douching) or sexual activity for about 1-2 weeks to reduce infection risk.
    • Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on managing pain and other symptoms.

  3. Watch for Complications:

    • Contact your doctor if you experience heavy bleeding, fever, severe pain, or foul-smelling discharge, as these may indicate an infection or other complications.

Risks of a D&C

  1. Infections: Rare but possible if bacteria enter the uterus during the procedure.
  2. Uterine Perforation: Rare; occurs if the instrument punctures the uterine wall.
  3. Cervical Damage: May occur during dilation.
  4. Asherman’s Syndrome: Rare scarring of the uterus that may affect future fertility.
  5. Bleeding: Usually mild, but heavy bleeding may occur in rare cases.

When is a D&C Recommended?

  • D&C is advised when less invasive treatments are ineffective or when precise tissue removal or diagnosis is necessary.