How to Prepare for a D & C
A Dilation and Curettage of the uterus, or D & C as it's more commonly referred to, is not as scary a procedure as it once was. Advances in medicine have made this surgery safe and routine. For some women, it can be an alternative to a hysterectomy.
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Instructions
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Talk to your doctor about any allergies to medication, including anesthesia.
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Do not take drugs several days before your surgery, including aspirin as this can cause more bleeding than necessary. Also avoid cold pills and laxatives Do not consume alcohol or have any tobacco products. Stop taking herbal supplements at least two weeks prior to your surgery.
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Do not eat or drink anything at least 12 hours before your surgery if you will have an anesthesia that puts you completely asleep, or 8 hours for a local anesthesia.
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Get tested to make sure nothing was missed in your pre-operative physician exam prior to the procedure.This will include blood and urine tests.The pre-op exam is to minimize complications during the surgery.
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Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure is done. You will not be able to drive yourself after receiving anesthesia during your surgical procedure.
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Tips & Warnings
The D & C can be performed in a hospital or doctor's office. If it is in a hospital it will be an outpatient procedure and no overnight stay will be necessary.
The D & C procedure only takes about 15-30 minutes to complete.
It is possible to have heavy bleeding after the procedure. This is rare but if it occurs, it is probably due to the uterine walls being injured by an instrument during the surgery.
Be sure to speak with your doctor regarding any questions or concerns you may have about undergoing a D & C procedure.
