Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a minor surgical procedure in which the lining of the uterus is gently scraped to treat various uterine conditions. It may be recommended for issues such as uterine polyps, infections, or, in some cases, uterine cancer.

Dilation and curettage (D&C) is carried out under local or light general anaesthesia by a specialist in gynaecology. The procedure usually takes around 15 minutes.

During the procedure, cells from the inner lining of the uterus—known as the endometrium—are carefully removed. This lining naturally regenerates with each menstrual cycle.

D&C is commonly performed to address menstrual issues or to remove uterine fibroids, polyps, and other abnormalities.

When is D&C recommended?

• Diagnosis: A biopsy D&C allows for the collection of endometrial tissue to be analysed when uterine cancer is suspected. This type of cancer is more common in postmenopausal women.
• Treatment of irregular menstruation: D&C can be used to help manage abnormal uterine bleeding, including bleeding between periods, heavy or painful periods, and similar issues.
• Removal of fibroids or polyps: These are benign growths that can form inside the uterus and may lead to complications such as heavy menstrual bleeding, recurrent miscarriages, or implantation failure.
• Embedded intrauterine device (IUD): Long-term contraceptive devices like IUDs can sometimes become embedded in the endometrial lining, making removal difficult. In such cases, a D&C can be performed to remove the endometrial tissue surrounding the device, allowing for safe extraction.

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Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a straightforward procedure that typically takes around 15 minutes to complete.

To ensure the patient feels no discomfort or pain during the procedure, local anaesthesia or light general anaesthesia is administered beforehand.

The procedure generally follows these steps:

1. Preparation and positioning: Once in the operating room, you will be asked to lie on the examination table in a position indicated by the gynaecologist. The anaesthetist will then administer the appropriate anaesthesia.
2. Cervical dilation: After the anaesthesia takes effect, a speculum is gently inserted to open the vaginal canal and allow access to the cervix. The cervix is then gradually dilated to make room for the surgical instruments.
3. Curettage: Using a special instrument called a curette—a thin rod with a small loop at the end—the gynaecologist carefully removes the endometrial tissue through the cervical opening. This process is often referred to as “scraping” the uterine lining.
4. Post-procedure check: Once the tissue has been removed, the specialist will check for any signs of excessive bleeding or complications. If tissue samples were taken for analysis, they will be sent to the pathology lab.
5. Recovery: After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery room for observation. Once you're stable and awake, you’ll be discharged with detailed post-operative care instructions to follow at home.

Following a D&C, it is normal to experience some vaginal bleeding for around 10 to 15 days. However, this bleeding is not menstrual. Your next menstrual period will usually occur 30 to 40 days after the procedure.

You may also feel mild abdominal discomfort or pelvic pain. To ease these symptoms, rest and over-the-counter pain relief are usually recommended.

Despite these symptoms, recovery from a D&C is typically quick, and most patients can return to their normal daily activities the day after the procedure. That said, it’s important to follow a few aftercare recommendations to avoid complications:

• Avoid sexual intercourse for at least two weeks after the procedure.
• Do not use tampons during the recovery period.
• Avoid vaginal douching or taking baths (showers are allowed).
• Refrain from strenuous physical activity or heavy exercise.

The total cost of a Dilation and Curettage (D&C) procedure with Operarme is 1.090 € — a fixed, all-inclusive price with no hidden fees.

This price covers everything required to ensure the success and safety of the procedure.

The following are all included:

• Operating theatre reservation and use
• Full pre-operative assessment
• Post-operative consultations
• Medical specialists’ fees
• Anaesthetist’s fees
• Nursing team fees
• All surgical materials required for the procedure
• Anaesthesia and recovery room reservation
• Medical complications insurance

Do you need dilation and curettage treatment?

Request a free and immediate appointment with our specialists and set a date for your treatment

Make appointment