$Unique_ID{BRK01261}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System, Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests}
$Title{What is a D & C?}
$Subject{menses bleeding curettage D & C}
$Volume{J-14, P-14}
$Log{
Dilation and Curettage: X-section*0009901.scf
Dilation and Curettage: Overview*0009902.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is a D & C?


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QUESTION:  My problem has been irregular menstrual bleeding and now it seems I
am to have a D & C.  I suppose I should know what this means, but I don't.
Would you please tell me what I should know?

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ANSWER:  A dilation and curettage (D & C) is a relatively simple diagnostic
and therapeutic procedure in which the neck of the womb is expanded with a
tool called a dilator, and the lining of the womb is scraped off with a
spoon-shaped instrument called a curette.  The lining is then studied in the
lab to rule out any abnormal pathology, such as a benign or cancerous tumor.
     Although D & C is used less frequently than it once was (to spare the
patient the risks and costs of surgery) a physician will still recommend it
for a few specific clinical situations.  For instance, a D & C is used to
clean out the uterus and/or reduce the amount of bleeding after a miscarriage.
Also, if a potential problem is detected by biopsy in the office, if the
patient is experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, or if the office workup
does not yield enough tissue for evaluation, a D & C is the best way to obtain
an accurate diagnosis.  In your case it may provide the answers needed to help
correct your problem.

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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.
