Conditions of the Uterus | Gynecological Procedures
1532 Wesley Way, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
Mon–Thu, 7:30am to 4:30pm

Dilation and Curettage

A common procedure, dilation, and curettage are used to diagnose and treat certain uterine conditions. Dilation and curettage are often abbreviated as D&C. Your doctor may recommend D&C if you have abnormal health care issues including excessive menstrual bleeding or our of cycle bleeding.

The procedure will be used to check the cause of these symptoms and to diagnose any trouble. Since the array of symptoms is wide, they could be a sign of several different conditions, including:

  • Endometrial hyperplasia
  • Uterine polyps
  • Uterine cancer
  • Abnormal cell growth

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What is done during a D&C?

The D&C procedure involves removing the uterine lining, or endometrial tissue. Your doctor will recommend whether only a small tissue sample is needed or whether more needs to be cleared away so that the underlying condition can be treated.

A D&C is also often performed following childbirth to clear away any remaining tissue or placenta. We perform the procedure in our offices, so you know you’ll be in a comfortable space throughout.

General anesthesia is often used to help you feel more comfortable, but keep in mind that you may need someone to take you home after the procedure if that’s the case.

D&C is a surgical procedure in which the cervix is dilated so that your doctor can have better access to your uterus. Dilation is performed by inserting a series of slender rods to slowly increase opening to the uterus.

The goal of dilation is typically about half an inch. Once dilated, your doctor will use a special spoon-shaped instrument to suction off the endometrial area that is causing concern.

How long does it take to recover from D&C?

Once the procedure is completed, we’ll let you recover in your private room. In general, you can expect to return home on the same day. It’s fairly common to experience mild discomfort for the first few hours after the procedure, and you may have a small bit of cramping and light spotting.

We are here to help you through the entire process. Our goal is to provide you with personalized health care and to be your trusted health care partner. Give us a call or send us an email if you have any questions about D&C. We’re happy to schedule an appointment so that your doctor can go over the entire process from start to finish.