D&C is the commonest term and procedure in Gynecology. It actually describes the procedure - DILATATION of the opening of cervix and CURRETAGE - scraping the inner walls of the uterus to remove the inner lining or endometrium.

D&C is usually performed to diagnose

• Abnormal bleeding or possible cancer inside the uterus.
• Cause of infertility

When D&C is done in a pregnant woman it is termed MTP.

• Planned abortion during first 3 months of pregnancy.
• Incomplete spontaneous miscarriage.

D&C is usually performed in a Nursing home or hospital on a day care basis and under General Anaethesia.

• The vagina is cleant with an antiseptic solution.
• The opening of the cervix is gradually widened with a dilator, and a curette is inserted into the uterus.
• The curette is used to scrape away the uterine lining. This is sent for laboratory analysis.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Surgical-wound infection.
• Excessive bleeding.
• Inadvertent injury to the uterus.

TREATMENT

MEDICATION

Pain relievers, Antibiotics to prevent infection, some tablets to lessen blood flow

SEXUAL ACTIVITY

Resume sexual relations when spotting ceases.

• Increasing or foul smelling vaginal discharge.
• Unusual vaginal swelling or bleeding develops.
• Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.