Dilation and Curettage Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a D&C, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:

• Complications related to the anesthetic

• Injury to the cervix

• Scarring of endometrium

• Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes

• Uterine perforation (hole in the uterus)

• Bleeding

• Damage to other organs in the abdomen

• In case of significant injury or bleeding, possible need to open the abdomen and have the uterine wound stitched closed

• Possible need to remove the uterus ( hysterectomy )

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Pre-existing infection

• Pre-existing medical condition

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection, including fever and chills, increasing pain, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Nausea or vomiting that does not stop
• Abdominal pain
• Vaginal bleeding that is saturating more than one sanitary pad per hour
• Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain

In case of an emergency, call 911.