Are Dilation and Curettage Necessary?

You may need a D&C for one of several reasons. It's done to: Remove tissue in the uterus during or after a miscarriage or abortion or to remove small pieces of placenta after childbirth. This helps prevent infection or heavy bleeding.

How do I know if I need a D&C?

You may need this procedure if you have unexplained or abnormal bleeding, or if you have delivered a baby and placental tissue remains in your womb. D&C also is performed to remove pregnancy tissue remaining from a miscarriage or an abortion.

What happens if I don't get a D&C?

About half of women who miscarry don't need a D&C procedure. If the miscarriage occurs before 10 weeks of pregnancy, it will most likely happen on its own and not cause any problems. After the 10th week of pregnancy, there's a higher risk of having an incomplete miscarriage.