Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a short procedure in which the cervix is gently opened and tissue is removed from the lining of the uterus by suction or a thin instrument. It is used to find the cause of abnormal or postmenopausal bleeding and to remove pregnancy tissue after a miscarriage. It usually takes 10–20 minutes, and most women go home the same day.
- Duration
- About 10–20 minutes
- Anesthesia
- Sedation or brief general; sometimes local
- Hospital stay
- Same-day discharge
- Back to desk work
- 1–2 days
- Bleeding afterward
- Light, up to about 2 weeks
- Cost guide
- ₩300,000–1,200,000 (general guide)
What is a D&C?
Dilation means gently widening the cervix; curettage means removing tissue from the inside of the uterus, either with a suction tube (suction curettage) or a small spoon-shaped instrument (curette).
- Diagnostic D&C takes a sample of the lining for the lab to find the cause of bleeding.
- Therapeutic D&C removes tissue that is causing a problem, such as tissue remaining after a miscarriage.
It is often combined with hysteroscopy, so the doctor can see the inside of the uterus and target any abnormal area.
When is a D&C recommended?
- Heavy, prolonged or irregular bleeding that needs a diagnosis; see heavy menstrual bleeding
- Any bleeding after menopause
- A thickened or irregular lining seen on ultrasound
- Early pregnancy loss or an incomplete miscarriage, when tissue remains in the uterus
- Tissue remaining after childbirth, or a molar pregnancy
- Removal of small polyps, usually together with hysteroscopy
After a miscarriage, waiting for natural passage or medication may also be options; your doctor explains which suits your situation and how quickly each works.
D&C compared with other options
| Option | What it involves | Typically used for |
|---|---|---|
| Office endometrial biopsy | Thin tube samples the lining, no anesthesia | First-line sampling for abnormal bleeding |
| D&C | Cervix opened, lining removed under sedation | Larger samples, retained pregnancy tissue |
| Hysteroscopy with D&C | Camera view plus targeted removal | Polyps, focal lesions, unclear findings |
| Expectant or medication management | Waiting, or tablets to help the uterus empty | Selected cases of early pregnancy loss |
Your D&C at Yoonho, step by step
At Yoonho Women's Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, D&C is performed as a day procedure.
- Consultation and ultrasound Your symptoms and history are reviewed in English and a transvaginal ultrasound is done on the same day.
- Preparation Blood tests and a pregnancy test as needed. If sedation is planned, fast for about 6–8 hours and arrange for someone to accompany you home.
- The procedure The cervix is gently dilated and the lining or tissue is removed by suction or curette. It usually takes 10–20 minutes.
- Recovery room You rest for about 1–2 hours until you are alert and bleeding is light.
- Aftercare You go home with written instructions in English and any prescribed medication.
- Results visit Pathology results are usually ready in about a week and are explained in English, with a written report if you need one.
A thickened or irregular lining, or retained tissue, can cause heavy or prolonged bleeding.
After D&C the cavity is cleared and the tissue is sent to the lab to find the cause.
Recovery and possible risks
- Day 0 Cramping and light bleeding are normal. Do not drive for 24 hours after sedation.
- Day 1–2 Most women return to desk work and light activity.
- Up to 2 weeks Spotting may continue. Avoid tampons, intercourse, baths and swimming for about 1–2 weeks, or as advised.
- 4–6 weeks The next period usually returns.
D&C is a common and generally safe procedure, but risks include infection, heavy bleeding, injury to the cervix, uncommon perforation of the uterine wall, and rarely scar tissue inside the uterus (Asherman's syndrome). After a pregnancy loss, it is normal to need emotional support; please let the team know how you are feeling.
Cost and insurance for international patients
As a general guide, a D&C costs about ₩300,000 to ₩1,200,000, depending on anesthesia, whether hysteroscopy is added and pathology tests. A written estimate is given after consultation.
- Residents enrolled in National Health Insurance are usually covered for medically necessary D&C; see health insurance for foreigners.
- Visitors can request English documents for travel insurance claims.
Explore related procedures in surgical gynecology.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Is a D&C painful?
The procedure is done under sedation or anesthesia, so most women do not feel it. Cramping similar to a period is common for a day or two and is usually managed with simple pain relief.
Will a D&C affect future pregnancies?
For most women it does not. Rarely, scar tissue forms inside the uterus; tell your doctor if periods become very light or stop after the procedure.
When will my period come back?
Usually within about 4–6 weeks. If it has not returned after 6–8 weeks, arrange a check-up.
Can I fly after a D&C?
Most women can fly a day or two after an uncomplicated procedure. Share your travel dates so that follow-up and results can be planned around them.
Do I need someone to come with me?
If you have sedation or general anesthesia, yes. You should not drive or travel alone for 24 hours afterward.
OB-GYN Specialist · Ph.D. · Medical Director
Former Professor of OB-GYN, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine · Former editorial board member, AAGL · 11th President, Korean Society of Aesthetic Gynecology
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
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