$Unique_ID{BRK01383}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests}
$Title{What Does a "D and C" Mean?}
$Subject{D&C Pap smear reason}
$Volume{P-14}
$Log{
Dilation and Curettage*0009902.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Does a "D and C" Mean?


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QUESTION:  Could you please explain what a "d and c" means.  I am faced with
the need for one and haven't been able to fully understand all my doctor has
tried to tell me, because I am always so nervous when I am in the office.  Why
do they do this, and what can they expect to find out?  Will I have to stay in
the hospital for a long time?  Thank you for all your help.

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ANSWER:  "D&C" is an abbreviation of "dilatation and curettage," which means
dilating the cervix, or opening to the uterus, and scraping the lining from
the uterus.  This may be done for several reasons.  The most common reason is
to learn the reason for abnormal uterine bleeding.  This includes bleeding
between periods, bleeding after intercourse, irregular or heavy bleeding
during menopause, or bleeding after menopause has occurred.  The lining of the
uterus is scraped, removed, and examined for abnormalities such as cancerous
or pre-cancerous cells.  A D&C is different from a Pap smear.  In a Pap smear,
cells from the cervix, or mouth of the uterus, are tested.  In a D&C, cells
from the lining of the uterus are tested.
     The D&C is a simple, low-risk procedure that can be done with relatively
little discomfort.  The D&C may be done to determine whether more surgery,
such as a hysterectomy, is needed, but you probably will only need stay in the
hospital for the day when you have this test.
     Other reasons for D&C are to try to determine the reason for unexplained
infertility, to remove any remaining tissue from the uterus following
miscarriage, or to remove an IUD that is imbedded in the lining of the uterus.
A D&C is also sometimes performed to voluntarily terminate a pregnancy.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
