It is a minor surgical procedure to open the cervix and empty the uterus. It is usually done for two purposes. In women who are pregnant, it is done to empty the tissue inside the uterus and to diagnose women with irregular bleeding. It is also sometimes done as a check-up after a miscarriage to see if there is any tissue left in the uterus. This prevents excessive bleeding and infection. This procedure may not be necessary if the pregnancy is early and the amount of tissue is very small. This can be checked with ultrasound.

Sometimes the pattern of menstruation can change. There may be spotting between periods or after sexual intercourse. In these cases and in bleeding after menopause, curettage is performed to take a biopsy for diagnostic purposes. It usually does not require anesthesia, there is a painful period during the procedure, but this is very short. However, there are cases where general anesthesia is required. It can be done if the cervix is very narrow or if the patient is very intolerant of pain. The material is sent to pathology, and treatment is based on the results. In rare cases of excessive vaginal bleeding, curettage may be performed for treatment, but not for diagnostic purposes. It is applied when medication is not sufficient.

What is the Process?

First, if anesthesia is required, general anesthesia is given by the anesthesiologist. Then a tube-shaped instrument called a dilator is used to open the cervix. This instrument is inserted through the cervix. The tissues in the uterus are removed with a vacuum. The whole process takes about five minutes.

When can I start working?

For most women, one day off is enough. Physically, recovery is quick. But psychological recovery may take longer. Because if it was a wanted pregnancy, it will be difficult for you to lose your baby. Irregular bleeding after curettage is to be expected.

After Curettage

– Large clots and excessive bleeding

– If there is severe abdominal pain

– If there is foul-smelling vaginal discharge

– Tell your doctor immediately if you have a high fever.

What are the Risks

There is almost no risk. The following problems are also very rare, especially in non-pregnant women.

– There may be a perforation in the uterus. Pregnant women need to be especially careful as the walls of their uterus are very sensitive.

– The tissue in the uterus may not be completely removed. The remaining part may expel itself, but there is a possibility of bleeding and infection. In this case, a repeat procedure is necessary.