Dilation and Curettage (D&C) Procedure in Dayton, OH

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What is dilation and curettage?

Dilation and curettage, also known as D&C, is a procedure used to remove tissue from your uterus. Your doctor may perform dilation and curettage to diagnose or treat certain uterine conditions.

How is dilation and curettage used for diagnosis?

For diagnosis purposes, your doctor will scrape your uterine lining for a tissue sample. The tissue sample can be used to help diagnose:

  • Endometrial hyperplasia
  • Uterine polyps or cancer

Your doctor may recommend dilation and curettage for diagnosis purposes if you experience unusual vaginal bleeding or bleeding after menopause.

How is dilation and curettage used for treatment?

For treatment purposes, your doctor will take a tissue sample as well as scrape out any potentially harmful content from the uterus, such as:

  • Remaining tissue following a miscarriage
  • A molar pregnancy
  • Remaining placenta following pregnancy
  • Polyps

What does a dilation and curettage procedure involve?

The first step of a dilation and curettage procedure involves your doctor widening your cervix with medication or medical instruments. Once properly dilated, your doctor will then carefully scrape and scoop out the uterine tissue. Your doctor may also perform what is known as a hysteroscopy to better view the lining of your uterus, detect abnormalities, and gather tissue samples if needed.

What can I expect following dilation and curettage surgery?

Knowing what to expect after dilation and curettage can help you prepare for postoperative care and avoid potential infection or complications. After the procedure is complete, your doctor may monitor you for any signs of complications. If you received general anesthesia, you might feel nauseous or drowsy for a bit. Side effects, such as mild cramps or light bleeding, may also occur. Until the healing process is complete, you should refrain from having sex or inserting anything in your vagina. Doing so may increase your risk of infection.

Is pregnancy after undergoing dilation and curettage possible?

Pregnancy after dilation and curettage is still possible. In rare cases where dilation and curettage is done after a miscarriage, a condition known as Asherman’s syndrome can occur, leading to infertility or future miscarriages.

What are the benefits of dilation and curettage?

Benefits of undergoing a dilation and curettage procedure may include:

  • Getting a clear diagnosis for the cause of your uterine bleeding
  • Effectively treating the underlying cause of your uterine bleeding
  • Removing unwanted or harmful tissue from the uterus

If you are interested in learning more about dilation and curettage, schedule an appointment with an Ob/Gyn specialist at Huey & Weprin Ob/Gyn. With specialized care and cutting-edge treatments in obstetrics and gynecology, Huey & Weprin Ob/Gyn offers a wide variety of gynecologic and obstetric services from leaders in Ob/Gyn research development. Call 937.771.5100 or fill out the form on this page to schedule an appointment.

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