Dilation and curettage
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Dilation and curettage is a gynaecological procedure performed on the female reproductive system. The procedure involves dilating the cervix and inserting instruments to clean out the lining of the uterus while the woman is under an anaesthetic. D&Cs are most commonly performed for the purposes of abortion or miscarriage, but these are far from the only reasons that a woman may require one.
Other typical reasons for a D&C are to resolve abnormal uterine bleeding (too much, too often or too heavy a menstrual flow); to remove the excess uterine lining in women who have conditions such as PCOS which cause a prolonged buildup of tissue with no natural period to remove it; and to remove uterine fibroids or other suspected abnormalities such as premalignant cells in their uterine lining.
Other procedures include dilation and evacuation and dilation and extraction. The later is referred to, in political contexts, as partial birth abortion.
A curettage is performed with a curette. A curette is a metal rod with a handle on one end and a sharp loop on the other.
If the procedure is performed too roughly, scar tissue may form and seal the uterus shut (Asherman's syndrome), resulting in infertility.
External link
- HOWTO: Perform the Dilation & Curettage Surgical Procedure (http://www.kuro5hin.org/story/2004/3/22/20565/6275) by "ti_dave", March 24th, 2004. Article and discussion published on Kuro5hin.