What is D and C?
Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a gynecological procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions related to the uterus. This procedure involves dilating or widening the cervix and scraping or suctioning the tissue lining of the uterus. It is commonly used to diagnose and treat abnormal uterine bleeding, remove remaining tissue after a miscarriage, or perform an abortion.
How long should you bleed after a D&C?
It is normal to experience bleeding, spotting, or light discharge for up to two weeks after a D&C procedure. However, the amount and duration of bleeding can vary based on various factors, including the reason for the procedure, the method used, and individual factors such as age and overall health.
Immediate bleeding after D&C
Immediately after a D&C procedure, it is common to experience some bleeding or discharge. This bleeding may be heavier or lighter depending on the type of procedure you had.
- Suction curettage: This is a less invasive method that uses a suction device to remove the uterine tissue. It typically results in less bleeding.
- Sharp curettage: This is a more invasive method that involves using a surgical instrument to scrape or remove the uterine tissue. It may result in more bleeding than suction curettage.
Normal bleeding after D&C
After the initial bleeding, it is normal to experience some bleeding, spotting, or discharge for up to two weeks after the D&C procedure. The amount and duration of bleeding can vary depending on several factors, including the reason for the procedure, the method used, and individual factors such as age and overall health.
Heavy or prolonged bleeding after D&C
While some bleeding is normal after a D&C procedure, heavy or prolonged bleeding may indicate a problem. If you are experiencing heavier bleeding than usual or if the bleeding continues beyond two weeks, you should speak to your doctor immediately.
In some cases, heavy or prolonged bleeding may indicate a complication such as infection, retained tissue, or injury to the uterus or cervix. Your doctor will be able to determine the cause of the bleeding and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
How to manage bleeding after D&C?
To manage bleeding after a D&C procedure, it is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully. Some general tips to manage bleeding include:
- Use tampons or pads: Your doctor may recommend using pads instead of tampons to allow for easier monitoring of the amount and type of bleeding.
- Rest and limit activity: Rest and limited activity can help to reduce bleeding and promote healing.
- Avoid sexual activity: Sexual activity can increase the risk of infection and may cause bleeding.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help to reduce the risk of dehydration and promote healing.
- Avoid aspirin and other blood-thinning medications: Aspirin and other blood-thinning medications can increase the risk of bleeding.
When to seek medical help?
If you are experiencing heavy or prolonged bleeding after a D&C procedure, or if you develop any other unusual symptoms such as fever, chills, or severe pain, you should seek medical help immediately. These symptoms may indicate a complication such as infection, retained tissue, or injury to the uterus or cervix.
Your doctor will be able to determine the cause of the bleeding and develop an appropriate treatment plan. In some cases, additional procedures or medications may be required to manage the bleeding or prevent complications.
Conclusion
Bleeding after a D&C procedure is normal and expected, but it is important to seek medical help if you experience excessive or prolonged bleeding or unusual symptoms. By following your doctor’s instructions and giving yourself time to rest and heal, you can help to manage your bleeding and prevent complications.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers regarding bleeding after D&C:
- Can I use tampons after D&C?
- Is it normal to have clotting after D&C?
- How long does it take to recover from D&C?
Your doctor may recommend using pads instead of tampons to allow for easier monitoring of the amount and type of bleeding.
Some clotting may be normal after a D&C procedure as the body expels the excess tissue.
The recovery time after a D&C procedure can vary depending on the reason for the procedure and individual factors. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and give yourself time to rest and heal.
References
1. Dilation and curettage (D&C). (2021, October 28). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20385106
2. Fothergill, M. (2020, March 24). Dilation and Curettage (D&C). Patient. https://patient.info/gynecology/dilation-and-curettage-dc-leaflet
3. How to Manage Postoperative Bleeding After Gynecologic Procedures. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-to-manage-postoperative-bleeding-after-gynecologic-procedures