What is done?

In a D&C your cervix is dilated and then an instrument with a sharp loop is inserted in the cervix. The loop is then used to scoop out the inner lining of the uterus. This is conducted either under local or general anesthesia depending on every patient.

When Do You Opt for One?

Excessive Bleeding

When you have excessive bleeding that goes on for months your inner lining is very thick. In this case your doctor may ask you to go in for a D&C. Once the inner lining is taken out and the bleeding temporarily stops.

The lining is then sent for a biposy to find out the reason for this excessive bleeding.

Age Group

Even a teenager with excessive bleeding may be asked to go in for this to stop the bleeding.

In the same way, menopausal women also have bleeding that goes on for months. Again your gynaec will ask you to go in for a D&C.

After a D&C your gynaec will put you under Hormonal Treatment to see if the excessive bleeding still continues.

Abortions

A D&C is also used in abortions, where again the foetus is removed by scooping out the entire inner lining. But this is done only when the foetus is 6 weeks old or less. At this stage the foetus is just a collection of cells. Post 6 weeks you will need to go in for an MTP.

Others

A D&C will also be conducted to remove polyps or to detect tumours due to fibroids by testing the tissue lining for malignant (cancerous) cells.

A Little Lining Left Behind

Because a D&C is a blind procedure, a little bit of lining may be left behind. But your gynaecologist will give you anti-tetanus and anti-bacterial shots. So the lining, if any, that's left behind will not get infected.

On the other hand, if no shots are given, or if the procedure is not done in a sterile place, then there are chances of getting an infection.

Too Sweet?

If you have diabetes or high blood pressure then you need to inform your gynaecologist so that the necessary medical precautions are taken. After a routine ECG and a blood count test, your gynaecologist needs to make sure that your blood pressure is in control before the test.

If you have diabetes then you are more susceptible to infections. So getting your blood sugar under control is another thing that your gynaecologist will do.