What is Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

As we mentioned in previous articles during the last stage of the menstrual cycle normally a layer of endometriosis lining in the inside of the uterus is expelled, known as menstruation blood but instead some of the endometriosis tissues grow somewhere in the body causing endometriosis.

Endometriosis also reacts to hormonal signals of the monthly menstrual cycle, building up tissue, breaking it, and eliminating it through the menstrual period. In this article, we will discuss the diagnostic dilatation and curettage ( D&C).

I. Definition

D&C is the removal of the contents and inner lining of woman's uterus. The tissues taken will be examined by the pathologist for any abnormality in the uterus.

II. How it works

D&C can be performed in your doctor office with local or regional anesthesia. You are not required to make ant preparation for this test. D&C use a series of small cylinders that slowly increase in diameter through the cervical canal and into the uterine cavity, then your doctor will curette, a thin, scooplike medical instrument to remove some tissues from the uterus for testing. You can leave the office after sometime of rest in the doctor office and be sure to have someone driving you home.

III. Risks

a) Anesthesia risk
If you have any bad experience before, you should talk to your doctor, so he or she can choose one that posts little or no risk to your body reaction.
b) Infection
Infection may be happened after testing caused by bacteria in the uterus and some medical instrument used.
c) Bleeding
Bleeding is caused by damaging of uterine tissue during testing. If abnormal bleeding or heavy bleeding occur, you should go the emergency room immediately.
d) Fever and abdominal pain
If symptoms of fever and abdominal pain persist after taking medicine, you should call your doctor immediately.