Dilation and Curettage is a procedure in which tissue is removed from the uterus. Generally, in an outpatient procedure, the person can go home on the same day as the procedure.
D&C gets its name from below procedures:
- Dilation of Cervix: The gynecologist dilates or opens the cervix with the help of small instruments.
- Curettage: A surgical instrument named curette, which can be either a sharp instrument or a suction device, is used to remove uterine tissue.
Need for D&C
D&C may be carried out for the following reasons:
- Removal of Tissue from the Uterus: Uterine lining left behind after abortion or miscarriage and parts of the placenta that are left in the uterus after childbirth can cause an increased risk of bleeding and infection. These are removed through D&C.
- Diagnosing or Treating Irregular Uterine Bleeding: D&C can help remove abnormal tissue that causes medical conditions such as fibroids, uterine cancer, and infection. It can also be performed to remove polyps, tumors, or cysts. D&C can be carried out to extract a sample of the uterine tissue for lab analysis; this procedure is called a biopsy.
Before D&C
Talk to your doctor about your medical history. Let them know if you suspect pregnancy. Let the doctor know about the medications you are taking and any allergies that you have.
During Dilation and Curettage (D&C)
Depending on the medical history and the condition behind the procedure, the doctor may suggest:
- General anesthesia: You will be unconscious throughout the procedure.
- Spinal or Epidural Anesthesia: You will feel numb from the waist down and won’t feel the procedure.
- Local Anesthesia: You will be awake, and the area around the cervix will be numbed.
Procedure
The woman will be told to lie on her back and place her legs in foot or leg rests called stirrups. The doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina and holds the cervix in place with a clamp.
Dilation
The lower part of the uterus is opened to make room to insert a slender rod named laminaria into the opening and use the medicine before the procedure to soften the cervix and stretch it wider.
Curettage
The gynecologist scrapes the lining of the uterus with the help of a long, spoon-shaped instrument called a curette. The doctor can use a cannula to suction the remaining contents of the uterus. The tissue sample goes to the lab for testing. Sometimes, D&C can be performed in combination with hysteroscopy.
Recovery after D&C
Women who have been given general anesthesia may feel groggy and have nausea and vomiting. There may be mild cramping and spotting. So, you may want to wear a sanitary pad or take pain relievers to control pain.
Do not put any tampons into your vagina, and avoid sex. The period may either come early or get delayed after D&C.
Complications due to D&C
Rare complications include a damaged cervix, perforated uterus, or bladder. Rush to the doctor if you notice the following symptoms after D&C:
- Heavy bleeding or blood clots
- Abdominal tenderness
- Fever
- Pain
- Foul-smelling discharge from the vagina
Sometimes, scar tissue known as adhesions may form inside the uterus, which, if not cured immediately, can cause infertility. Therefore, it is essential to report any abnormal menstrual changes after D&C.
If you are looking out for D&C, get it done with the expert hands of a gynecologist at Matrix Hospital Mehdipatnam.
All your Doubts Answered!
1. What are the hospital's operating hours?
Matrix Hospital operates 24/7, including public holidays. Outpatient services are typically available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday.
2. Do I need an appointment before visiting the hospital?
Walk-in patients are welcome. However, for non-emergency consultations, booking an appointment is recommended to reduce waiting time. To book an appointment, call us on +91 8886665551 or +91 7799886623
3. What specialties and services are available?
We offer a range of specialties, including General Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, General Surgery, Orthopedics, and Emergency Services. Diagnostic facilities like X-rays, ultrasound, and pathology are also available.
4. Does the hospital have a pharmacy on-site?
Yes, our in-house pharmacy operates 24/7 and is stocked with a wide range of medicines and emergency drugs.
5. Are cashless insurance and TPA services available?
Yes, we are empaneled with multiple insurance providers and TPAs for cashless hospitalization. Our billing desk can assist with insurance-related queries.
6. What is the hospital’s policy for patient visitors?
Visitors are allowed during designated hours, generally between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Only one visitor is permitted per patient at a time for the comfort and safety of all.
7. How do I get a copy of my medical records or discharge summary?
You can request medical records and discharge summaries from the Medical Records Department. A valid ID and written authorization may be required for release.
8. What emergency services are available?
Our 24-hour emergency department handles trauma, cardiac, pediatric, and general medical emergencies, supported by an on-call team of doctors and critical care services.
9. Is ambulance service available?
Yes, we have a 24/7 ambulance service equipped with basic and advanced life support systems. For assistance, call our emergency helpline at +91 8886665551 or +91 7799886623.
10. Can patients choose their preferred doctor for treatment?
Absolutely. Patients can request consultations with a doctor of their choice, subject to the doctor's availability.
11. Are maternity services available?
Yes, we offer comprehensive maternity care, including antenatal checkups, delivery services, cesarean procedures, and postnatal care.
12. How can I provide feedback or make a complaint?
We value your feedback. You can share your comments through our feedback forms available at the reception, email us at matrixhospitalmehdipatnam@gmail.com, or speak to our Patient Relations Officer at +91 8886665551 or +91 7799886623.
13. Do you offer health check-up packages?
Yes, we offer a variety of preventive health check-up packages tailored for different age groups and medical needs. You can inquire at the reception or check our website, www.matrixhospitalmehdipatnam.com, for details.
14. Is parking available at the hospital?
Yes, we provide limited parking facilities for patients and visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. Dedicated parking for emergency cases is always available.
15. What are the modes of payment accepted?
We accept cash, credit/debit cards, UPI payments, and online bank transfers. EMI options may also be available for higher-value procedures — please check at the billing counter.
16. Do you have facilities for overnight stays for patient attendants?
Depending on the room category and availability, one attendant may be allowed to stay with the patient. Basic bedding can be arranged on request.
17. Are COVID-19 vaccinations and testing services available?
Yes, our hospital offers COVID-19 RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen tests, as well as vaccination services as per government guidelines. Please contact the front desk at +91 8886665551 for current availability.
18. Can medical certificates or fitness certificates be issued?
Yes, our doctors can issue valid medical and fitness certificates after an appropriate examination. Requests can be made at the outpatient reception.
19. What is the process for admitting a patient?
For planned admissions, the consulting doctor will issue an admission slip, which can be submitted at the admission desk. In emergencies, patients can be admitted directly through the casualty/emergency department.
20. How can I reach the hospital in case of a medical emergency?
For emergencies, you can directly bring the patient to our 24/7 emergency department or call our ambulance helpline at +91 8886665551 or +91 7799886623. Our emergency team is equipped to handle all types of medical situations promptly.