Dilation and Curettage (D&C): Procedure, Uses, Risks & Recovery

Dilation and curettage (D&C) dilates the cervix and scrapes the uterine lining with a curette. It diagnoses and treats:

• Abnormal or heavy uterine bleeding
• Miscarriage or incomplete abortion
• Retained products of conception
• Endometrial polyps, uterine fibroids
• Uterine cancer

How It’s Performed

Done as an outpatient under general anesthesia. The doctor inserts a speculum, dilates the cervix, and uses a curette to remove uterine tissue for lab analysis.

Risks

• Infection, bleeding
• Cervical or uterine damage
• Scarring (Asherman’s syndrome)
• Uterine perforation
• Anesthesia complications

Recovery

Most women have minimal discomfort—cramping and light bleeding manageable with OTC pain relievers. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a few days. Normal activities typically resume within days; follow your doctor’s specific instructions.