Dilation and Curettage (D&C) Risks and Complications Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What are some symptoms that indicate a woman may need to seek medical attention after a D&C?

Heavy bleeding with large clots, severe lower abdominal pain, smelly vaginal discharge, high temperature

Why do most women experience psychological effects after a miscarriage?

Because the pregnancy might have been anticipated with much joy

Who are the women, not pregnant, that may need to undergo a D&C?

Older women experiencing postmenopausal bleeding, and few women under the age of 40 for diagnostic purposes

How soon can a woman usually return to work after a D&C?

The following day Signup and view all the answers

Why are gynecological curettages performed?

To make a diagnosis and determine the best treatment Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions is a D&C performed under general anesthesia?

If the gynecologist anticipates difficulty dilating the cervix, if the woman is very anxious, or if she requests general anesthesia Signup and view all the answers

What does D&C stand for?

Dilation and Curettage Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main reasons for performing a D&C?

To remove tissue remaining in the womb after pregnancy or as part of the investigation for heavy or irregular periods. Signup and view all the answers

What is the alternative to surgical evacuation?

Medical evacuation using tablets to induce uterine contractions. Signup and view all the answers

Is D&C necessary in all cases of early pregnancy miscarriage?

No, if the amount of remaining tissue is small, it may not be necessary. Signup and view all the answers

When should a woman contact her doctor after having a D&C?

If she experiences warning signs such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, or fever. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most reliable way to determine if there is any tissue remaining in the uterus after a miscarriage?

Ultrasound scan. Signup and view all the answers

What are the possible risks or complications of a D&C in recently pregnant women?

Uterine perforation and incomplete evacuation of tissue Signup and view all the answers

How is the cervix dilated before a D&C?

With instruments called dilators Signup and view all the answers

What is hysteroscopy?

Telescopic examination of the inside of the womb Signup and view all the answers

What is recommended by most gynaecologists along with a biopsy procedure?

Hysteroscopy Signup and view all the answers

What is a common experience for women in the days following a D&C?

Irregular bleeding Signup and view all the answers

How long does the D&C procedure usually take?

Five minutes Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Symptoms Indicating Need for Medical Attention Post D&C

Heavy bleeding or blood clots larger than a golf ball may signal complications.
Severe abdominal pain not alleviated by medications can indicate issues.
Signs of infection include fever, chills, or foul-smelling discharge.

Psychological Effects After Miscarriage

Women often experience grief, loss, and anxiety due to emotional attachment.
Hormonal changes can exacerbate feelings of sadness or depression after a miscarriage.

Women Needing a D&C Not Due to Pregnancy

Individuals with abnormal uterine bleeding require evaluation.
Those with uterine polyps, fibroids, or endometrial hyperplasia may need a D&C for diagnosis or treatment.

Recovery Time After a D&C

Many women can return to work within a few days, depending on their health and comfort levels.
Physical recovery varies, with some requiring more time for rest.

Purpose of Gynecological Curettages

Gynecological curettages are performed to diagnose or treat uterine conditions.
They are often used to remove tissue after a miscarriage or abnormal growths.

D&C Under General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used when extensive procedures are necessary or in cases of significant anxiety or pain.
Patients with certain medical conditions may also require it for safety.

Meaning of D&C

D&C stands for Dilation and Curettage, a surgical procedure on the uterus.

Main Reasons for Performing a D&C

The two primary reasons include clearing uterine contents after a miscarriage.
Another reason is to obtain tissue samples for further evaluation or treatment.

Alternative to Surgical Evacuation

Medical management, such as medication to induce uterine contraction, can be an alternative to surgical evacuation.

Necessity of D&C After Early Pregnancy Miscarriage

D&C is not always necessary; some women may choose expectant management or medication.

When to Contact a Doctor Post D&C

Women should reach out to their doctor if experiencing severe pain, prolonged bleeding, or signs of infection.

Reliable Tissue Assessment After Miscarriage

Ultrasound is the most reliable method to check for remaining tissue in the uterus post-miscarriage.

Risks or Complications of D&C

Potential complications may include infection, injury to the uterus, or heavy bleeding.
Emotional impacts, such as anxiety or depression, may also arise.

Cervical Dilation Techniques

The cervix is typically dilated using graduated dilators or medications that relax the cervix.

Hysteroscopy Explained

Hysteroscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a thin, lighted telescope to examine the inside of the uterus.

Recommendations Along with Biopsy Procedure

Most gynecologists recommend performing a hysteroscopy alongside biopsy to visualize and diagnose uterine conditions simultaneously.

Common Post-D&C Experiences

Many women may experience mild cramping and spotting following the procedure.
Emotional fluctuations are also common as they process the event.

Duration of D&C Procedure

The D&C procedure typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes, depending on individual circumstances.

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Description

Test your knowledge about the possible risks and complications associated with a Dilation and Curettage (D&C) procedure. Learn about uterine perforation, incomplete evacuation, and other related concerns.

Dilation and Curettage (D&amp;C) Risks and Complications Quiz

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