Dilation and curettage or D and C may be part of the treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding that fails to respond to other measures.

Dilation and Curettage
A dilation and curettage (D and C) is a surgical procedure where the inner lining of the uterus is removed. Before this can be done the cervix needs to be dilated. This allows for the passage of special surgical instruments that are used to remove the endometrium. One of these instruments is called a curette. It is used to gently scrape away the endometrial lining.

A sample of the material is sent to the laboratory for microscopic analysis. Recovery from a D and C is very rapid: you may have some vaginal bleeding and mild pain for about a day.

Risks of D and C include:

• Persistent bleeding
• Endometritis
• Damage to the uterus