Using this guide What's covered
Here you’ll find the answers to many of your questions about dilation and curettage (D&C). Learn how the procedure is done, what it may cost, what your recovery may be like, and more.
To see how this procedure is done, view our animation below. For personal insights, see our patient experience videos, in which HCF members talk frankly about their preparation, their procedure and their recovery.
Cost indicator
Discover the typical out-of-pocket costs HCF members can expect to pay for D&C and learn how your choice of doctor and hospital affect that cost.
See costs
The basics
What is a dilation and curettage?
D&C is a procedure where the cervix (opening of the womb) is dilated to sample and/or remove tissue from inside your uterus (womb). There are 2 common reasons you may have a D&C:
1) Diagnostic – to identify an underlying problem
2) Therapeutic – to treat a problem.
How is it done?
Your surgeon first dilates your cervix and then uses a spoon-shaped instrument called a curette to get some soft tissue from the lining of your uterus. Sometimes your surgeon may use a suction instrument to remove tissue instead. The tissue is then usually sent away to be examined by a pathologist under the microscope.
Why is it done?
D&C is used to diagnose conditions such as heavy periods, unusual vaginal bleeding, postmenopausal bleeding, pelvic pain, a suspicion of cancer, repeated miscarriages or infertility.
Your surgeon may do a D&C or suction curette after an incomplete miscarriage, termination of pregnancy, or after childbirth.
It’s different to hysteroscopy or hysterectomy
Hysteroscopy – an instrument with a light and camera is used to see the inside of your uterus and look for any abnormalities. Your surgeon can then either sample or remove any abnormal tissue. Hysteroscopy and D&C can be performed together.
Hysterectomy is surgery to remove your uterus or womb.
Where is it done?
D&C is normally done in a clinic or hospital.
How long does it take?
It usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
Who is involved?
- gynaecologist
- possibly an assistant surgeon
- possibly an anaesthetist
- nurses
- possibly a pathologist.
The details
CONSIDERING SURGERY
Alternatives to a D&C procedure
Are there other options?
Results vs risks of D&C surgery
The benefits and potential complications of the procedure.
Choosing a specialist
How to find a gynaecologist.
PREPARATION
Questions for your doctor
What you should be asking before going ahead with D&C.
Preparing for your procedure
What you need to do before your procedure.
Your anaesthetic options
About the anaesthetic and post-procedure pain relief.
YOUR PROCEDURE
Going to hospital
What to expect on the day of the procedure.
Your procedure
What happens in the operating theatre?
RECOVERY
After your procedure
What happens before you go home.
Aftercare
Taking precautions and resuming activities.
PATIENT EXPERIENCES
People who’ve had dilation and curettage surgery talk about their preparation, hospital stay and recovery.
Give us feedback
Did you find this guide helpful? Let us know what you liked or what we can do to improve it. We'd love to hear from you.
To provide feedback, email us at wellbeing@hcf.com.au.
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Important information
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.