Dilation and Curettage
by Editorial Staff and Contributors
Dilation is a procedure to open and widen the cervix. The cervix is the entrance to the uterus. Curettage is the removal of the lining of the uterus by scraping. The lining is known as the endometrium. The 2 procedures are done together and are often referred to as a D&C.
Reasons for Procedure TOP
A D&C is usually done to determine what condition is causing abnormal bleeding. Some conditions that may cause abnormal bleeding are:
Sometimes a D&C is done to stop the bleeding, rather than to diagnose why you are bleeding. For example, this procedure may be done to remove products of conception or to treat bleeding that has not responded to other methods.
A D&C is not done if you have an infection, such as one that affects the uterus or fallopian tubes.
Possible Complications TOP
Complications are rare. But no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a D&C, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, such as:
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include having a pre-existing infection or condition.
What to Expect TOP
Prior to Procedure
Talk to your doctor about all the medications you are taking. Up to one week before the surgery, you may be asked to stop taking some medications.
In addition, arrange for a ride home and for help at home.
General or local anesthesia may be used.
Description of Procedure TOP
A pelvic exam will be done to find out the size and location of the uterus. The vagina and cervix will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution. A speculum will be placed in the vagina. An instrument called a cervical dilator will be placed into the cervical canal. Once the cervical canal is slightly open, a scoop-shaped instrument, called a curette, will be inserted into the uterus. It will be used to scrape the uterine lining and remove tissue through the vagina. After sampling the endometrium, the instrument will be removed from the cervix.
Immediately After Procedure TOP
You will be taken to a recovery room, where the nurses will monitor you.
How Long Will It Take? TOP
You may be able to go home in a few hours.
Will It Hurt? TOP
If you have general anesthesia, you will have no pain during the procedure. With local anesthesia, you may have some cramping and back pain.
After the procedure, pain may last up to 24 hours.
Post-procedure Care TOP
At the Care Center
You will be monitored in the recovery center.
When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:
Your next menstrual cycle may not be regular. It may be late or early.
Call Your Doctor TOP
Contact your doctor if your recovery is not progressing as expected or you develop complications, such as:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Office on Women's Health
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada
Women's Health Matters
D&C procedure after a miscarriage. American Pregnancy Association website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Updated November 2011. Accessed October 30, 2014.
Dilation and curettage. American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed October 30, 2014.
Last reviewed December 2015 by Karli-Rae Kerrschneider, RN
Last Updated: 12/20/2014
EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at email@example.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.