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?
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.
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.
