Unwanted termination of pregnancy usually happens within the first thirteen weeks and is a tragic loss. After termination procedure, the body gets rid of the foetal tissues but a medical intervention or dilation (D) and curettage (C) is still required.
D and C is a surgical procedure often performed after a first trimester miscarriage. Dilation refers to opening the cervix and curettage refers to removing the contents of the uterus. It is performed to diagnose and treat certain uterine conditions such as heavy bleeding or to clear the uterine lining after a miscarriage or an abortion.
In this article:
What are the Chances of Getting Pregnant after Dilation and Curettage Procedure?
How Long After D and C can You Get Pregnant?
Tips for Healthy Pregnancy Post D and C
Dilation and Curettage Risks
What if You Have Trouble or are Unable to Conceive?
What are the Chances of Getting Pregnant after Dilation and Curettage Procedure?
Dilation and curettage is performed when a woman has a miscarriage or an abortion. Through this procedure, a doctor examines the uterine lining and the inside of the uterus and the contents of the uterus are scraped and scooped out. It is known that the pregnancy rate after dilation and curettage procedure gets affected. Also, there are many concerns regarding new pregnancy after the D and C procedure. After a miscarriage, don’t lose hope as chances of having a successful pregnancy still remain very high and surely can conceive a healthy baby.
How Long After D and C can You Get Pregnant?
After D and C procedure, make sure to visit gynaecologist for a follow up session after two weeks to see how the body is recovering. As the body recovers completely, sexual intercourse can be done. The traumatic state heals in a longer period which is different and varies in each case.
Tips for Healthy Pregnancy Post D and C
After a miscarriage woman may be frustrating and lose interest in everything. A healthy pregnancy requires a healthy body which ensures smooth and easy pregnancy which eventually lead to healthy baby. Therefore, there are some tips for healthy and successful pregnancy after D and C –
Consume Foods Rich in Folic Acid
Folic acid is a man-made form of folate which helps in production of red blood cells and in the development of a baby’s brain. If folic acid is consumed before and during pregnancy it can prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord for the baby. Hence, increase the consumption of folic acid in the diet. Food rich in folic acid and folic acid supplements can be taken which are easily available.
Eat Healthy Foods
Following a healthy and balanced diet before and during pregnancy is very important for both mother and baby. Consuming foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids help in the development of a baby’s brain. Also, taking dairy products provide calcium and proteins to the body for pregnancy. A diet rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals is essential for a healthy and smooth pregnancy. So make sure to take milk, nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables and stay hydrated.
Maintain Healthy Weight
Normal and smooth pregnancy is ensured by normal and healthy weight. Being underweight or overweight can cause complications in pregnancy and during delivery. Hence, maintaining a healthy weight is important for smooth pregnancy. If the woman is overweight and want to conceive, should quit eating junk foods and incorporate healthy foods into the diet. Regular exercise daily can also help in losing excess weight and prepare the body for pregnancy.
Follow a Healthy Lifestyle
Avoid bad habits like drinking, smoking and taking any recreational drugs as these may increase the chances of a miscarriage. Change these habits for successful pregnancy and eat well with regular exercise.
Indulge in Sex
Post miscarriage is normal for a woman to not indulge in any sexual activities. Also, regular sex can increase the chances of conceiving. If having sex in most fertile period, pregnancy can get easily.
When trying for pregnancy after having a miscarriage or multiple miscarriages, consult a doctor for easy and healthy pregnancy.
Dilation and Curettage Risks
Most of the time D and C is safe but complications are rare. Risks can be seen which include –
- Uterine perforation
- Infection in the uterus
- Scar tissue formation on the uterine wall
- Damage to the cervix
- Heavy bleeding
What if You Have Trouble or are Unable to Conceive?
Many women face trouble conceiving after a D and C procedure but there are some steps which can be taken to embrace motherhood. Try to figure out the cause of fertility and get it treated. Despite undergoing fertility treatment, if not able to get pregnant after a D and C then consult the doctor.
Conclusion
Dilation and curettage is a surgical procedure to remove tissue from inside the uterus. It is done for abnormal bleeding or if the baby is delivered and placental tissue remains in the womb. Also, it is performed to remove pregnancy tissue remaining from a miscarriage or an abortion. Consult the doctor to avoid complications and healthy pregnancy.
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910
