Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure to scrape and collect endometrium, the tissue inside the uterus. Dilation is the widening of the cervix which allows instruments to pass into the uterus, while curettage is the scraping of the uterine walls.
A dilation and curettage procedure is performed for several reasons. They are as follows:
- Diagnose uterine cancer or other conditions
- Remove tissue after a miscarriage
- Treat heavy bleeding
- Perform a therapeutic or elective abortion
- Investigate infertility
A dilation and curettage is performed under general or local anesthesia. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold it open. Medication to numb the opening to the uterus may be applied at this time. A curette is then inserted to gently scrape the tissue.
