Dilation and Curettage (D&C) is a procedure using medical instruments inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterine cavity to stop bleeding in cases of miscarriage and abnormal uterine lining causing heavy bleeding. Dilation and curettage helps diagnose diseases by collecting tissue samples from the uterine cavity for pathological examination to find the cause of abnormal bleeding.
Post-Dilation and Curettage Care
- You should rest for at least 1 day if you still feel fatigued due to blood loss.
- Observe the bleeding. Normally, bleeding will be light for 3–5 days or very minimal to none. If bleeding is heavy, such as soaking one sanitary pad within 30 minutes to 1 hour, return to see a doctor at the hospital immediately.
- Do light housework and gradually increase activity. Do not overexert yourself initially and avoid lifting heavy objects as it may cause lower abdominal pain.
- Eat nutritious and beneficial foods according to your body’s needs as usual.
- Bathe and clean your body as usual. Pay attention to vaginal hygiene by cleaning thoroughly after bowel movements and urination.
- Change sanitary pads when wet. Treat it like a menstrual period.
- Do not douche the vagina as it may cause infection.
- Do not bathe by soaking in a tub, river, canal, or swimming pool for 1 week.
- Abstain from sexual intercourse for at least 2 weeks after dilation and curettage to prevent bleeding and infection.
- You will be prescribed 2–3 types of medication: antibiotics, pain relievers, and iron supplements if you have significant blood loss.
- Observe for abnormal symptoms when you return home, such as heavy bleeding, lower abdominal pain that does not improve with rest, fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or pus from the vagina.
- The doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to assess symptoms and review pathology results at 10 weeks. You should attend all scheduled appointments.
How to Prepare for Dilation and Curettage
- Avoid food and drink from midnight or about 8–12 hours before the procedure. If anesthesia will be used, have someone accompany you because after the procedure, you may feel weak and dizzy.
- Inform the doctor about any drug allergies and current medications.
- Report any chronic illnesses before undergoing the procedure.
- Prepare sanitary pads to wear after the procedure as there will be vaginal bleeding.
