Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

1. Dilation

The first step in a surgical abortion is to dilate the cervix. The cervix is a ring of muscles located at the base of the uterus. The cervix normally remains tightly closed until it dilates naturally during labor at the end of a pregnancy.

a. Procedure: A series of rods or rings of progressive thickness are used to dilate the cervix. The purpose of a dilation procedure is to open the cervix so surgical instruments can be inserted.

b. Possible Complications:

• Bleeding and laceration (tearing) of the cervix
  
• May lead to miscarriages and premature births
  
• Increased risk of cervical cancer

2. Curettage

a. Procedure: After dilation of the cervix as described above, a spoon-shaped knife called a curette is used to remove the unborn child and tissue from the uterus.

b. Possible Complications

• Risk of muscle damage to the cervix
• Increased risk of uterine perforation