Dilation and curettage (D and C)

I recently had a miscarriage, and my doctor says I need a suction dilation and curettage. Can you tell me what this procedure is for?

- No name / No state given

Answer

Suction dilation and curettage — also called a D and C — is a minor surgical procedure in which your doctor widens (dilates) your cervix and gently suctions (aspirates) tissue from inside the uterus. Sometimes a long metal instrument with a loop on the end (curet) is used after the suction to scrape the walls of the uterus, making sure it's empty. Suction dilation and curettage is often used when an incomplete miscarriage has occurred, and some fetal or placental tissue remains inside the uterus.

Not everyone who has a miscarriage needs suction dilation and curettage. Complications resulting from a D and C are rare but may include damage to the connective tissue of the cervix or uterine wall, which may affect future pregnancies.

RELATED

MayoClinic.com Bookstore

• 'Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy' (Softcover)