A Dilation and Curettage (D&C) is a common medical procedure that involves gently widening the cervix, the opening to the uterus, and then removing tissue from the uterine lining. Healthcare providers perform a D&C for various reasons, including after a miscarriage or abortion to clear any remaining tissue, or to remove placental fragments after childbirth. The procedure is also used to diagnose or treat conditions like abnormal uterine bleeding, fibroids, polyps, or to investigate potential uterine cancer by collecting a tissue sample.
Typical Timeline for Period Return
The return of menstruation after a D&C occurs within a few weeks, though the exact timeframe varies. Most individuals can expect their period to resume approximately four to six weeks following the procedure. It is also common for ovulation to restart within one to two months, preceding the first menstrual bleed.
The uterus needs time to heal and rebuild its lining after tissue removal. Pregnancy hormone levels, specifically human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), must decrease and return to pre-pregnancy levels.
Influences on Period Recovery
Several factors can influence how quickly a menstrual period returns following a D&C. The primary reason for the procedure plays a role; for instance, a D&C performed after a later-stage miscarriage may result in a longer wait for menstruation compared to one after an early miscarriage. This difference relates to the varying levels of pregnancy hormones, which take longer to normalize after more advanced pregnancies.
An individual’s menstrual cycle patterns before the D&C can also affect recovery. If periods were irregular prior to the procedure, they are likely to remain irregular afterward, potentially leading to a longer time for menstruation to resume. The completeness of tissue removal during the D&C is also important. The sooner all uterine tissue is cleared, the more quickly the menstrual cycles can normalize.
What to Expect From Your First Period
The first menstrual period after a D&C will differ from previous cycles. Many individuals experience a heavier flow than usual, sometimes accompanied by more clotting. Conversely, some may find their first period to be lighter and shorter.
Variations in duration are common, with the first period able to last longer than typical cycles. Increased discomfort, such as more intense cramping, can occur during this initial period. These changes can be due to the body’s adjustment to a renewed cycle.
Signs to Seek Medical Advice
While recovery from a D&C often progresses smoothly, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Individuals should contact a healthcare provider if their period has not returned by 10 weeks after the procedure. Persistent unpredictability in cycles several months post-procedure should also be discussed with a doctor.
Signs of complications include bleeding heavy enough to soak one or more pads per hour, or the passage of large blood clots. Severe or worsening pain, abdominal tenderness, or cramps lasting more than 48 hours are also concerning. Other symptoms include a fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, chills, or lasting dizziness or lightheadedness.