A dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure to remove tissue from inside the uterus. After the procedure, you will likely spend a few hours in a recovery room so that you can be monitored for heavy bleeding or other complications. You may experience cramping for the first few days after the procedure, which can be similar to menstrual cramps, and pass small clots of blood from your vagina for the first few days. You may also have light vaginal bleeding for several weeks after the procedure. Common side effects of a D&C can last a few days and include cramping and spotting or light bleeding. You may be instructed not to douche, use tampons, or have intercourse for two to three days after a D&C, or for a period of time recommended by your doctor. You should be able to resume your activities within one or two days. If you had general anesthesia, you may feel groggy for a while and have some brief nausea and vomiting. Complications such as a damaged cervix and perforated uterus or bladder and blood vessels are rare, but be sure to contact your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms after a D&C: heavy or prolonged bleeding or blood clots, fever, pain, abdominal tenderness, or foul-smelling discharge from the vagina.