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D and C

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Alternative Names:

Dilatation and curettage; Uterus scraping

Expectations after surgery:

D and C has relatively few risks, can provide relief from bleeding, and can help diagnose infection, cancer, infertility, and other diseases.

Convalescence:

Normal activities may be resumed as soon as the patient feels well, possibly even the same day. There may be vaginal bleeding, as well as pelvic cramps and back pain for a few days after the procedure.

Pain can usually be managed well with medications. Tampon use is not recommended for a few weeks, and sexual intercourse is not recommended for a few days.

• Review Date: 6/6/2006
• Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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