Dilation & Curettage (D&C)
Compassionate D&C procedure services in Frisco, TX. Legacy OBGYN provides expert dilation and curettage for diagnosis, treatment, and pregnancy loss management with personalized, supportive care.
Overview
A dilation and curettage (D&C) is a common gynecological procedure that involves gently widening the cervix and carefully removing tissue from the uterine lining. At Legacy OBGYN in Frisco, TX, our experienced physicians perform D&C procedures for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, helping women find answers and relief for a variety of uterine concerns. Whether you need evaluation for abnormal bleeding, treatment for uterine polyps, or compassionate care following a miscarriage, our team is here to support you every step of the way. We understand that the circumstances leading to a D&C can be emotionally challenging, particularly when related to pregnancy loss. Our all-female physician team provides a safe, nurturing environment where you can ask questions, express concerns, and receive the individualized attention you deserve. We take the time to thoroughly explain the procedure, discuss what to expect during recovery, and ensure you feel informed and cared for throughout your experience. D&C is often performed as an outpatient procedure and may be combined with hysteroscopy for enhanced visualization of the uterine cavity. This combination allows our physicians to identify and address abnormalities with greater precision. At Legacy OBGYN, we utilize modern techniques and prioritize your comfort, offering anesthesia options tailored to your needs and preferences.
What to Expect
- A thorough pre-operative consultation where your physician will review your medical history, explain the procedure in detail, and answer any questions you may have
- Pre-procedure instructions including fasting guidelines, medication adjustments, and arranging transportation home after the procedure
- Anesthesia options ranging from local anesthesia with sedation to general anesthesia, depending on your procedure and preferences
- The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, during which your cervix is gently dilated and uterine tissue is carefully removed using a curette or suction device
- Post-procedure monitoring in a comfortable recovery area until you are ready to go home, usually within a few hours
- Mild cramping similar to menstrual cramps and light bleeding or spotting for several days following the procedure, which is normal
- Detailed aftercare instructions including activity restrictions, signs to watch for, and when to resume normal activities
Procedures Offered
Diagnostic D&C
When the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding is unclear, a diagnostic D&C collects tissue samples from the uterine lining for laboratory analysis. This helps identify conditions such as endometrial hyperplasia, hormonal imbalances, or precancerous changes, guiding your physician in recommending the most appropriate treatment plan.
Therapeutic D&C
A therapeutic D&C is performed to treat a known condition rather than diagnose one. This may include removing uterine polyps, treating abnormal bleeding, or clearing the uterus of remaining tissue after a miscarriage. The goal is to resolve symptoms and restore uterine health.
D&C with Hysteroscopy
Combining D&C with hysteroscopy allows your physician to insert a small camera into the uterus for direct visualization before and during tissue removal. This approach enables more precise identification and treatment of polyps, fibroids, adhesions, and other abnormalities within the uterine cavity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to recover from a D&C procedure?
Most women recover quickly from a D&C and can return to normal activities within one to two days. You may experience mild cramping and light spotting for up to two weeks. Your physician will advise you to avoid tampons, douching, and sexual intercourse for about two weeks to allow your cervix to close and reduce the risk of infection. If you experience heavy bleeding, fever, severe pain, or foul-smelling discharge, contact our office immediately.
Will a D&C affect my ability to become pregnant in the future?
For most women, a D&C does not affect future fertility. The procedure is designed to be gentle on the uterine lining, and the tissue regenerates naturally within your next menstrual cycle. In rare cases, scarring (Asherman syndrome) can occur, but this is uncommon when the procedure is performed by experienced physicians. If you have concerns about fertility, please discuss them with your doctor during your consultation.
What emotional support is available if I am having a D&C after a miscarriage?
We understand that pregnancy loss is deeply personal and can be an emotionally difficult experience. Our compassionate team is here to support you not only medically but emotionally as well. We provide a gentle, understanding environment and can connect you with counseling resources and support groups if you wish. Please know that you are not alone, and we are committed to caring for your whole well-being during this time.
Conditions We Treat
- Abnormal uterine bleeding, including heavy menstrual periods or bleeding between periods
- Miscarriage management to remove remaining tissue and prevent complications
- Incomplete miscarriage or missed miscarriage requiring intervention
- Uterine polyps causing bleeding or fertility concerns
- Endometrial hyperplasia or thickening of the uterine lining
- Postmenopausal bleeding requiring diagnostic evaluation
- Retained products of conception following childbirth
- Diagnostic evaluation when endometrial biopsy results are inconclusive or abnormal
Key Benefits
- Accurate diagnosis through tissue sampling that can identify the cause of abnormal bleeding and rule out serious conditions
- Effective treatment that can resolve symptoms of heavy bleeding, remove polyps, and address other uterine abnormalities in a single procedure
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure with a quick recovery time, allowing most women to return to normal activities within a few days
- Compassionate pregnancy loss care that provides closure and helps prevent complications such as infection or prolonged bleeding
- Enhanced precision when combined with hysteroscopy, allowing direct visualization and targeted treatment of uterine abnormalities
- Personalized anesthesia options to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure
- Experienced all-female physician team who understand the emotional and physical aspects of your care