A dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure that is done to remove tissue from inside the uterus. During a D&C, the vagina is spread open, and a scraping or suction instrument is passed through the cervix and into the uterus to remove tissue from the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
A D&C may be done to:
- Remove tissue that remains after a woman has had a miscarriage.
- Remove tissue that may be causing abnormal vaginal bleeding. The tissue can then be examined for any abnormalities.
- End a pregnancy (abortion).
A D&C is usually done in a hospital without requiring an overnight stay. Pain medicine is given before the procedure. Many women choose to have a general anesthetic that makes them unconscious during the procedure.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Last Revised | April 18, 2011 |
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