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Dilation and curettage (D&C)
If the endometrial biopsy does not provide enough tissue or if a diagnosis of cancer is not definite, a dilation and curettage (D&C) may be done. Dilation and curettage is a surgical procedure in which the cervix is dilated. The surgeon passes a small instrument called a curette through the cervix into the uterus and scrapes off a sample of the endometrium. D&C takes about an hour and is usually done as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, so the woman will be unconscious and feel nothing. For a few hours after the procedure, she may experience mild pelvic cramping and a slight vaginal discharge. Also, the next menstrual period may be early or late. Most women are able to return to normal activities within one to two days. Intercourse, douching, and the use of tampons are usually not permitted for two weeks.
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