Discharge Instructions for Dilation and Curettage (D and C)
Your doctor performed dilation and curettage (D&C). The reasons for having this procedure vary from person to person. The D&C may be performed to control heavy uterine bleeding, to find the cause of irregular bleeding, to perform an abortion, or to remove pregnancy tissue if you have had a miscarriage.
Home Care
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Take it easy. Stay quiet and rest for 2 days.
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Return to your normal activities after 48 hours. You may also return to work at that time.
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Eat a normal diet.
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Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for pain, if needed.
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Remember, it’s OK to have bleeding for about a week after the procedure. The amount of bleeding should be similar to what you have during a normal period.
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Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for 1 week after the procedure.
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Don’t drive for 24 hours after the procedure.
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Don’t have sexual intercourse or use tampons or douches until your doctor says it’s safe to do so. This can be anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks.
Follow-Up
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Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following:
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Bleeding that soaks more than one sanitary pad in one hour
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Severe abdominal pain
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Severe cramps
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Fever above
100.4 °F (38.0 °C) -
Chills
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A foul smelling vaginal discharge
