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A dilatation and curettage, also called a D and C, is one way to evaluate problems inside the uterus. It is a minor surgery performed in a hospital or outpatient surgery centre with anaesthesia. The opening of the uterus, called the cervix, is slowly dilated to allow an instrument with a small straw attachment into the uterus. The lining of the uterus is lightly scraped or curetted, to obtain a sample. This sample of lining is evaluated for disease.
The reasons a D and C may be done include: - heavy bleeding, as can happen after a birth or with irregular periods
- an enlarged uterus
- scarring of the opening of the uterus
- an early pregnancy loss, or miscarriage after 6 weeks or with continued bleeding
Today, endometrial sampling often replaces the D and C procedure. To perform endometrial sampling, a sample of the inner layer of the uterine wall is removed using a tiny straw-like tube. The test is simple and no anaesthesia is needed. Mild pain may occur for a short time after the sample is taken. This test may be needed for: - periods that occur too often or are too heavy
- bleeding after menopause
- being unable to get pregnant or
- checking the outcome of a treatment
If endometrial sampling cannot be done easily and safely in the office, a D and C may be done instead. These tests have become important as more women are getting care for problems that can now easily be identified. As a result, fewer surgical procedures are necessary each year. Article #7119 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
