Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a surgical procedure in which the cervix (lower, narrow part of the uterus) is dilated (expanded) and a thin instrument is inserted into the uterus to remove tissue from inside the uterus. D&C is used to diagnose and treat many conditions that affect the uterus, such as abnormal bleeding, uterine cancer, and infertility investigation. A sample of tissue from inside the uterus can be viewed under a microscope to tell whether any cells are abnormal. A D&C may also be used to remove pregnancy tissue during a first-trimester abortion or during a miscarriage.

Before doing a D&C, a healthcare provider might recommend a procedure called endometrial biopsy or endometrial sampling to diagnose a condition. Endometrial sampling might be done if there is abnormal or excessive uterine bleeding, severe menstrual pain, difficulty becoming pregnant, or abnormal cells found in a pap smear. During a D&C, the patient lies on their back and places their legs in stirrups like during a pelvic exam. The doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina and holds the cervix in place with a clamp. The procedure involves two main steps: dilation of the cervix and curettage, which involves scraping the lining and removing uterine contents with a long, spoon-shaped instrument (a curette) . In most cases, the tissue is sent to a lab for examination.

Complications from dilation and curettage are rare, but there are risks, including infection, heavy bleeding, and damage to the uterus or cervix. The procedure may be done in a healthcare professional’s office, a surgery center, or a hospital.