What is a D&C?
It is the slight stretching of the opening of the uterus (cervix). Then a sample of some or all of the lining of the uterus is taken. This is done when you are not pregnant.
This helps your care team diagnose:
- Infection
- Why abnormal bleeding is happening
- Fibroid tumors
- Cancer or pre-cancerous cells or tissue (abnormal cells or tissue that have changes in how they look or grow but are not cancer yet)
Your care team stretches the cervix enough to place an instrument inside. It often takes less than 15 minutes. A hysteroscopy is often done with the D&C. A hysteroscopy uses a scope to look inside the uterus.
What can I expect after the D&C?
Most people have very few side effects. You may have some:
- Low belly cramping or low back pain. These often get better quickly.
- Cramps on and off for a few days. Take medicines as prescribed for this.
Most people have spotting or light bleeding for a few days. This should not be heavier than your normal period. Some people have no bleeding at all. The bleeding should slowly get darker or lighter in color and then stop.
If you still have a period, it should start at its normal time or within 4 weeks. It may be lighter or heavier than normal.
No strenuous exercise (like running, aerobics, or swimming) for at least 1 to 2 days. Do not put anything into your vagina for 2 weeks (14 days), such as:
- Having sex
- Using a douche
- Using a tampon
This helps you have a safe recovery. It also helps lower your risk of infection or heavy bleeding.