A D and C is a short surgical procedure in which a doctor gently opens the cervix and removes tissue from the lining of the uterus. The letters stand for dilation and curettage — dilation means widening the cervix, and curettage means scraping or suctioning out tissue. It is one of the most common minor gynecologic procedures in the United States and is usually finished in well under an hour.
Doctors use it for several reasons: to clear the uterus after a miscarriage, to remove tissue left behind after childbirth, to diagnose abnormal bleeding, or to treat certain uterine conditions. Most people go home the same day. Knowing what happens, why it is done, and what recovery looks like can take a lot of the fear out of it.
What Happens During a Dilation and Curettage?
The procedure has two steps, and the names describe them. First the cervix is dilated. Then the uterine lining is cleared with a slender instrument called a curette, or with gentle suction.
Most D and C procedures are done in an operating room or a procedure room. You will usually be given anesthesia so you do not feel pain. That may be general anesthesia, which puts you fully asleep, or regional or sedation anesthesia that keeps you comfortable and relaxed. The choice depends on why the procedure is being done and your health history.
Once you are comfortable, the doctor widens the cervix just enough to pass a thin instrument through it. The tissue lining the uterus is then removed. The whole thing typically takes 10 to 30 minutes, though you should expect to spend more time at the facility for preparation and recovery.
The tissue that is removed may be sent to a lab. This matters more than many people realize. When the procedure is done for abnormal bleeding, examining that tissue under a microscope is often the main reason for doing it — it can show whether cells are normal or whether something else is going on.
Is a D and C the same as a D and E?
No. A D and E (dilation and evacuation) is a related but different procedure, usually performed later in pregnancy. A D and C generally involves scraping or suctioning the lining of the uterus. A D and E involves removing more tissue and is a more involved procedure. Your doctor will use the term that matches your situation.
Why Is a D and C Performed?
There are a few main reasons, and they fall into two broad groups: treating a problem and diagnosing one.
To treat a problem:
- Clearing the uterus after a miscarriage, when the body has not passed all the tissue on its own
- Removing retained placenta or tissue after childbirth
- Removing tissue that is causing heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Removing a uterine polyp or small fibroid in some cases
To find a cause:
- Investigating abnormal uterine bleeding, especially after menopause
- Collecting tissue to check for abnormal cells or other uterine conditions
An important clarification: a D and C used to be a routine first step for many bleeding problems. Today it is often not the first choice. Less invasive options — like a procedure called a hysteroscopy, where a small camera is placed inside the uterus, or an endometrial biopsy done in the office — are frequently used first. A D and C is generally reserved for situations where those are not enough or where treatment is also needed.
How Do You Prepare for a D and C?
Preparation is usually simple, but the details matter. Follow whatever instructions your care team gives you, since they are tailored to your situation.
Most people are told not to eat or drink for a set number of hours before surgery, because anesthesia on a full stomach carries risks. You may also be asked to stop certain medications beforehand. Tell your doctor about every medication you take, including blood thinners, aspirin, and supplements, because some can increase bleeding.
You will usually need someone to drive you home. If you are having sedation or general anesthesia, you should not plan to drive yourself, and you should not be alone for the first several hours afterward.
Bring a list of your medications and any allergies. Ask questions ahead of time — what will be done, which type of anesthesia, and what to expect afterward. A short conversation beforehand often prevents a lot of worry later.
What Does Recovery Feel Like?
Most people recover quickly. You will likely rest in a recovery area for a short time before going home, and many people feel back to normal within a few days.
Cramping is common, similar to period cramps. Light bleeding or spotting is also typical. Your doctor may suggest a pain reliever for cramps. Ask before taking anything, since some over-the-counter pain medicines can increase bleeding.
For a short period after the procedure, you will usually be advised to avoid putting anything in the vagina — no tampons, no douching, and no sex — to lower the risk of infection. Your doctor will tell you exactly how long. Most people can return to normal daily activities within a day or two, though you may be advised to hold off on strenuous exercise for a little longer.
Some soreness and tiredness are expected. What is not expected is a high fever, heavy bleeding that soaks through a pad quickly, or severe pain that does not improve. Those are signs to call your doctor right away.
What Are the Risks and Complications?
A D and C is generally a safe procedure, but like any surgery it carries some risk. The evidence on complication rates is reassuring, though no procedure is risk-free.
The most commonly discussed risks include:
- Infection of the uterus
- Bleeding that is heavier than expected
- Injury to the cervix or uterus, which is uncommon
- A reaction to the anesthesia
- Scarring of the uterine lining (called Asherman syndrome), which is rare but can affect future fertility
Asherman syndrome is worth a brief note because it is a real concern for anyone who may want to become pregnant later. It is uncommon after a single D and C, and the risk tends to be higher with repeated procedures or more aggressive scraping. If you are planning a pregnancy in the future, it is reasonable to raise this with your doctor before the procedure.
Serious complications are not common. The best protection is following your aftercare instructions and reporting unusual symptoms promptly rather than waiting.
D and C Versus Other Procedures
Several procedures can remove or examine uterine tissue, and they are not interchangeable. Knowing the differences helps you ask better questions.
| Procedure | What It Does | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| D and C | Dilates the cervix and removes uterine lining with a curette or suction | Treating miscarriage, retained tissue, or abnormal bleeding; collecting tissue |
| D and E | Dilates the cervix and removes more tissue, later in pregnancy | Later pregnancy loss or termination |
| Hysteroscopy | Uses a small camera to look inside the uterus; can remove polyps | Diagnosing and treating many bleeding problems |
| Endometrial biopsy | Samples a small amount of uterine lining in the office | Checking for abnormal cells without full surgery |
The main practical takeaway: a D and C is one tool among several. If you are offered one, it is fair to ask why it is being recommended over a less invasive option. In many cases there is a good reason. Sometimes there is a choice.
When Should You Call Your Doctor After a D and C?
Most recovery is smooth, but a few warning signs mean you should get medical attention promptly.
Call your doctor if you develop a fever, if bleeding becomes heavy (for example, soaking through a pad in an hour), if you have pain that is severe or getting worse, or if you have foul-smelling discharge. These can be signs of infection or other complications that need treatment.
It is also reasonable to call if something simply does not feel right. You know your body, and a quick check is always better than waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a D and C procedure take?
The procedure itself usually takes 10 to 30 minutes, though you should expect to spend more time at the facility for preparation and recovery. Most people go home the same day.
Is a D and C painful?
It should not be, because anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Afterward, cramping similar to menstrual cramps is common and usually manageable.
How long do you bleed after a D and C?
Light bleeding or spotting for a short period is typical, and the exact duration varies from person to person. Ask your doctor what is normal for your situation and report heavy bleeding right away.
Can you get pregnant after a D and C?
Yes, most people can, and fertility is usually not affected by a single uncomplicated procedure. Scarring of the uterine lining is a rare risk that can affect fertility, so discuss any future pregnancy plans with your doctor beforehand.
