In this Article

• What is dilation and curettage?
• Why is a D&C done?
• What are reasons not to perform a D&C?
• Pre-op: What happens before surgery?
• What type of anesthesia is used for a D&C?
• How is a D&C performed?
• What are possible complications of a D&C?
• What happens after a D&C?
• Why is the D&C procedure becoming less common?
• Dilation and Curettage Index

Why is the D&C procedure becoming less common?

In general, the number of D&Cs being performed has declined over the years. This procedure is no longer done to regulate abnormal bleeding patterns in women. Most of these problems are now managed with medications, such as hormones. Ultrasound and other imaging techniques are likewise playing a greater role in helping to evaluate the uterus without surgery.

Probably the single greatest reason for fewer D&Cs is the option of in-office endometrial sampling (biopsy) that can be performed with a very thin plastic suction curette. This procedure is very quick and easy, and generally is only as painful as a bad menstrual cramp. If the patient is given some oral pain medications before the procedure, the cramps are minimal. Furthermore, the tissue sample obtained is in many instances as good as that achieved during a D&C surgery.

Previous contributing medical author: Leon J. Baginski, MD, FACOG

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