About Dilation and Curettage Abroad

Dilation and curettage, also referred to as D&C, is a procedure performed to diagnosis and treat problems with the uterus. The procedure can help to diagnose uterine cancer, the cause of heavy bleeding, and is also performed as part of the process for diagnosing the cause of infertility.

• Removing uterine polyps
• Removing remaining placenta after childbirth
• Diagnosing heavy bleeding
• Diagnosing pelvic pain
• Diagnosing uterine cancer

The process of dilating the cervix may begin in the hours or days preceding the procedure, as it helps to open the cervix gradually. The doctor may prescribe medication to help soften the cervix, which can be taken orally or can be inserted into the vagina.

If undergoing a general anesthetic, patients are usually advised to refrain from eating and drinking in the hours preceding the surgery. It is also advisable to bring a friend or relative on the day of the surgery to help when discharged from the hospital or clinic.

Afterwards, patients will usually spend a few hours in the recovery room. It is usually advised to avoid using tampons and having sexual intercourse in the days proceeding the procedure, in order to prevent an infection from occurring in the uterus.

After the procedure, patients may feel drowsy, and experience mild cramping and spotting. Some patients may feel nauseous as an effect from the anesthetic.

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Cramps
• Perforation of the uterus
• Scar tissue forming in the uterus
• Damage to the cervix