The dilation and curettage procedure is better known as a D and C. With this procedure, the cervix is dilated, and an instrument is used to scrape the contents of the uterus. This procedure is not just for abortions. It is also used to collect tissue samples to diagnose conditions, treat heavy bleeding or to remove tissue after a miscarriage.
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Difficulty:
Easy
Instructions
1
Understand that the dilation and curettage procedure is a medical procedure that is used not only to terminate pregnancies but to diagnose or treat other medical conditions.
2
Realize that dilation and curettage involves the dilation of the cervix by medication or instruments such as a speculum to allow the insertion of a curette.
3
Know that the curette is used to scrape the inside of the uterus to remove tissue for the purposes of terminating a pregnancy, removing tissue that could cause infection following a miscarriage, controlling heavy bleeding or diagnosing other medical conditions.
4
Anticipate that the physician may need to insert a cannula into the uterus to remove the tissue that has been scraped from the lining of the uterus.
5
Plan to spend at least a few hours at the hospital or clinic recovering following a dilation and curettage procedure.
Tips & Warnings
This procedure must be done within the first 12 to 15 weeks of pregnancy.
The D and C should only take about 10 minutes, but you'll probably need to stay in the hospital or clinic for about five hours. You will not be allowed to leave alone, so plan to bring a family member or friend to drive you home.
Risks of this procedure could result in perforation of the uterus, tearing the cervix or scarring the endometrium.
Don't do anything too strenuous for a few days. You may have bleeding, cramps and back pain for several days. Your doctor will let you know when you can resume normal activity.
Don't use tampons or have sexual intercourse for a few days. Your doctor will let you know when you can resume those activities.
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