GYNECOLOGY SURGERY

Dilation and Curettage in Norcross, GA

WHAT IS DILATION AND CURETTAGE?

Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a gynecology surgery that removes the inner uterine lining (endometrium) while the cervix is dilated. It is typically done to stop bleeding and help avoid infection. Dr. Gerry Sotomayor and the highly skilled team at Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta utilize dilation and curettage to diagnose and address a variety of gynecological conditions. You might need to have D&C performed to:

Clean out the uterus after a miscarriage
Treat heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
Perform an endometrial biopsy to check for precancerous cells
Diagnose the cause of heavy bleeding, infertility, or another reproductive disorder

To schedule a gynecology appointment, please contact our team near Norcross, GA.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DILATION AND CURETTAGE?

There are several reasons why patients opt to have a dilation and curettage procedure at the Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta. Aside from helping to treat a variety of medical conditions, benefits include:

Minimally invasive treatment: D&C is done in an outpatient setting at our office and requires no incisions or stitches.
Quick recovery: Women return home on the same day as their procedure and resume normal activities within a short period.
Accurate diagnosis: Dr. Sotomayor can help diagnose serious issues that could not be identified through other methods.
Relief from unwanted symptoms: If you are experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding or other signs of a gynecological condition, D&C may provide much-needed relief.

WHO ARE IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR D&C?

Ideal candidates for D&C at the Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta are individuals who are experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, such as heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, postmenopausal bleeding, or bleeding between periods. D&C can also be recommended for women who have experienced miscarriages, have incomplete miscarriages, or have certain gynecological conditions like endometrial polyps or fibroids. The expert team in Norcross, GA is dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care, ensuring the well-being of their patients throughout the entire D&C process.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR APPOINTMENT

Well-woman exams begin by reviewing your medical history, medications, and the date of your last menstrual cycle. A blood panel and a urine test may also be included in your visit. Within a private treatment room, we will take your blood pressure, height, and weight, and you will be asked to change into a paper gown. First, a breast exam will be conducted to check for any lumps or abnormalities. Next, your feet will be placed in stirrups so your doctor can perform a pelvic exam and Pap smear. The outside of your vagina will be examined, and then a speculum will then be placed inside your vagina, which allows Dr. Sotomayor to check for abnormalities. He will also take a tissue sample from the cervix, which is tested for abnormal cells. Well-woman exams are also an opportunity to discuss any reproductive or sexual health concerns within a private, caring environment. Dr. Sotomayor routinely provides guidance on topics, like family planning, irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, STDs, menopause, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction.

WHAT TO EXPECT WITH D&C

Dilation and curettage is an outpatient procedure performed at our office, taking about 10 – 15 minutes. You’ll either be asleep under general anesthesia or you will have a form of local anesthesia to help you stay comfortable. Dr. Sotomayor will start by opening your cervix with a speculum, followed by using several surgical instruments (cervical dilators) to slowly widen your cervix to give access to your uterus. A scraping tool will then be used to clean out the tissue in your uterus or to obtain a sample for lab testing, if necessary. You will most likely have some cramping, pelvic pain, or light bleeding during recovery after a D&C. Your normal activities can generally be resumed within a day or two.

D&C FAQ

Does a D&C hurt?

No, it does not. Patients are either put under general anesthesia (they are asleep) or local anesthesia is used to completely numb the treatment area. After the procedure, it is common to experience mild to moderate cramping, similar to menstrual cramps for a few days.

How long is recovery after a D&C procedure?

Patients will spend 2 – 3 hours in recovery after their procedure to monitor for complications and/or heavy bleeding. When Dr. Sotomayor releases you, you’ll be able to go home, but you’ll need someone to drive you. You may experience mild cramping, pelvic pain, and/or spotting or light bleeding. Most patients will be able to return to work and light activity in about 1 – 2 days. It is typically recommended to avoid using tampons and refrain from sex for a while after your procedure — Dr. Sotomayor will tell you when you are clear to resume all activities.

Will a D&C affect my menstrual cycle?

Yes, it can. It is common for your next period to be either late or early after a D&C procedure. You may also notice heavier bleeding with a little more clotting during the first 1 – 2 periods after a D&C.

Can I still get pregnant after a D&C?

Yes, you can. However, it may take some time for your cycle to return to a normal, regular timing. But having a D&C does not affect your fertility or ability to become pregnant.

YOUR HEALTH MATTERS

At Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta, we provide compassionate gynecology care that is customized to fit your needs. Dr. Gerry Sotomayor has many years of experience performing D&C and other gynecology surgeries near Norcross, GA. If you’re dealing with early pregnancy loss, heavy periods, or another gynecological problem, let us help. Call our office to schedule an appointment today.