Period After D&C: What to Expect, Timeline & When to Call Your Doctor

A dilatation and curettage (D&C) removes uterine lining tissue. The first period afterward varies widely—understanding the range of normal reduces anxiety.

Typical Timeline & Patterns

• First bleed (withdrawal bleed): 2–6 weeks post-D&C. Not a true period—hormonal withdrawal from pregnancy hormone drop.
• First true menstrual period: 4–8 weeks post-D&C (often 6–8 weeks).
• Duration: 3–10 days (may be heavier, longer, or shorter than baseline).
• Flow: Often heavier first 1–2 cycles; clots common. May be lighter if endometrial lining was thin.
• Cramping: Mild to moderate; improves daily. NSAIDs/heating pad help.
• Spotting: Intermittent for 2–4 weeks post-D&C is common.

Factors Influencing Recovery

• Indication: Miscarriage (hormonal crash) vs. diagnostic vs. therapeutic (polyp/fibroid).
• Gestational age at D&C: Later = longer hormonal recovery.
• Baseline cycle regularity: Irregular cycles pre-D&C → irregular post-D&C.
• Age, BMI, thyroid, PCOS, breastfeeding.

Red Flags: Contact Your Provider If

• Soaking >1 pad/hour for >2 hours
• Passing clots >golf ball size
• Bleeding >14 days
• Fever >38°C (100.4°F)
• Severe pain unrelieved by NSAIDs
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, palpitations (anemia signs)
• No period by 8–10 weeks (if not on hormonal contraception)

Fertility & Contraception

• Ovulation can occur before first period—you can conceive 2–3 weeks post-D&C.
• Use contraception immediately if avoiding pregnancy.
• Many providers recommend waiting 1–3 months before TTC for endometrial recovery—discuss with your doctor.

Follow-Up

• Post-op visit 1–2 weeks: assess healing, review pathology.
• If period abnormal at 2–3 cycles: consider ultrasound, hormonal panel, hysteroscopy.

Bottom line: Wide variation is normal. Heavy/long first period common. Red flags warrant evaluation. Fertility returns quickly—plan accordingly.