Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) Procedure by Best Gynaecologist

What happens during the D&E procedure?

Before performing the D&E procedure, your healthcare provider will first remove the laminaria dilators. After that doctor gives local anaesthesia, such as lidocaine, to reduce the pain during the procedure. In some cases, the cervix is further dilated with a rigid dilator instrument  After that surgeon uses a surgical instrument called a curette. Currete is a sharp instrument or suction device used to evacuate the fetus, placenta and other tissue. The complete procedure will take about 15-30 minutes. Some women experience uterine cramping afterwards. After the D&E procedure, you will stay at the doctor’s office for about 30 minutes to make sure you do not have heavy bleeding.

Risks and complications associated with D&E procedure

Just like any surgical procedure, D&E is also associated with certain risks and complications.

• Heavy bleeding, and hole in the wall of the uterus and, in some cases, injury to the cervix.
• Anaesthesia-associated risks such as adverse reactions to medication and breathing problems.  
• Risk of infection in the uterus and other pelvic organs.
• In some rare cases, there is a possible risk of having some pregnancy tissue stay inside even after the procedure.
• Risk of haemorrhage.

What to expect after the D&E procedure?

In most cases, women are discharged from the clinic/hospital within hours after the procedure. But if there are complications or you have any other underlying health condition, you may need to stay a little longer.

Here are some tips to follow to take care of yourself at home after the D&E procedure.

• Avoid using tampons until your regular periods.
• Take all the medication as prescribed by your health care provider.
• Avoid sexual intercourse.
• Some women experience cramping or mild abdominal pain after the D&E procedure, but that doesn’t last longer than 24 hours. If you experience severe cramping and pain, then consult your doctor and seek emergency help.
• Visit your doctor for a follow-up consultation for any further treatment that is needed.
• Consult your doctor if you are taking any counter-pain medicine, such as ibuprofen or tylenol. Avoid aspirin unless your doctor prescribes it. 
• Take rest as much as you can. You can do normal household chores based on how you feel. 
• Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting.
• Avoid using public swimming pools and hot tubs for at least a week after the D&E procedure.

What are the signs of complications after a D&E procedure?

In some cases, women experience few complications after the procedure. If you experience any of the following complications, then consult your healthcare provider and seek emergency help.

• Rapid heartbeat or severe chest pain.
• Severe headache and cramps.
• Shaking with chills or fever above  100.4°F (38°C).
• Foul smelling or vaginal discharge.
• Prolonged and heavy bleeding.
• Unusual sweating and trouble breathing.
• You may experience some signs and symptoms of depression because of hormonal changes, that require treatment.

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