Hysteroscopic Dilation and Curettage

Hysteroscopic dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure that removes from the uterus the tissue involved in a miscarriage. A suction device is used to remove the tissue. The endometrium (lining of the uterus) is then scraped to ensure that all of the material from the conception process is gone from the uterus. No incisions are made for the procedure because it is conducted through a hysteroscope, a type of endoscope that allows the physician to view the interior of the uterus through the cervix. Operative times vary greatly depending on the findings at the time of surgery. Average times range from 15 to 30 minutes. Patients will be under either local anesthesia plus intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Anti-inflammatory pain medicine, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, is usually required for the first several days after the procedure. Patients will have moderate cramping that should respond to this medication. Driving is allowed on the day after the procedure. If they desire, patients may return to work on the day following the procedure. They may experience a mild vaginal bleeding for several days after the procedure. As long as it is not associated with increasing pain or fever, it is nothing to worry about and will resolve.

UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology offers comprehensive women’s health care in a private, personal environment, with physicians and nurses who are dedicated to delivering excellent care. Because our physicians are nationally recognized specialists in their fields, you can rest assured that you are receiving the most advanced care available. UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology is consistently ranked among the best programs of its kind in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

As part of the UAB Division of Women’s Reproductive Healthcare, UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology’s services range from complete obstetric care to the medical and surgical treatment of complicated gynecological concerns. We work closely with the UAB Medicine Interventional Radiology team to diagnose and treat your condition, using the latest and most accurate technology and imaging methods, including fluoroscopy, ultrasound, and CT scans. Because UAB Medicine is an academic health center, patients may be offered participation in clinical research trials, which can give you access to new techniques and treatments that are not available elsewhere in the area. Our physicians are here for you at all times, from your first routine gynecological exam, to delivering your baby, to guiding you through menopause. When you establish a relationship with our doctors, you can rely upon that relationship throughout your lifetime.

Care Providers

Stefanie Fieno, CRNP Obstetrics and Gynecology Fatiha Johnson, CRNP Obstetrics and Gynecology Shweta Patel, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology