Curettage
Curettage (D&C) is a gynecological diagnostic and therapeutic procedure for removing the endometrium or uterine contents. At Palmotićeva, performed under short-term anesthesia with same-day discharge.
What is curettage?
Curettage (exploratory curettage, D&C — Dilation and Curettage) is a gynecological diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which spoon-shaped instruments (curettes) are used to surgically remove the endometrium or uterine contents. In modern practice, curettage is increasingly being replaced by more precise, minimally invasive methods such as hysteroscopy.
When is curettage recommended?
Curettage is indicated in the following clinical situations:
- Diagnostic purposes: obtaining tissue for histopathological analysis in cases of abnormal uterine bleeding
- Incomplete miscarriage: removal of retained tissue following a spontaneous abortion
- Polyp and growth removal: endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia
- Early pregnancy termination: as one method (increasingly replaced by vacuum aspiration)
- Heavy bleeding therapy: treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding
How is curettage performed?
- The patient is placed under short-term general anesthesia, analgesia, or local anesthesia
- The cervix is carefully dilated to the required diameter
- Curettes are used to systematically remove the endometrium or pathological contents
- Tissue samples are sent for histopathological examination
- The entire procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes
Recovery after curettage
- The patient is discharged the same day after a brief observation period
- Mild bleeding and cramping are normal for 3–7 days after the procedure
- Return to daily activities: 1–2 days
- A follow-up appointment is scheduled 7–14 days post-procedure
- Sexual abstinence is recommended for 2 weeks
Curettage or hysteroscopy?
In modern gynecology, hysteroscopy is increasingly replacing conventional curettage as it allows direct visualization of the uterine cavity. Our team at Palmotićeva Clinic has the latest hysteroscopic equipment and can advise you on the optimal procedure for your indication.
Performed by
Dr Đorđe Petković
Consultant in Operative & Endoscopic Gynaecology · 17+ years of experience
Patients often ask
No. The procedure is performed under general or local anesthesia, so the patient feels no pain during the procedure. Mild cramping is possible afterward.
Recovery is quick — return to daily activities within 1–2 days. Mild bleeding is normal for 3–7 days. A follow-up is scheduled for 7–14 days.
In the vast majority of cases, curettage does not negatively impact fertility. However, repeated curettages can rarely lead to intrauterine adhesions (Asherman syndrome).
In modern gynecology, hysteroscopy is preferred as it provides visual control and greater precision. Your doctor will recommend the optimal method based on your indication.
Sexual abstinence for at least 2 weeks is recommended, until the follow-up confirms the uterus has fully healed.
