Care at Home After D&C

How You Might Feel After Your Operation

• The anaesthetic may cause you to feel nauseated, dizzy or sleepy for 24 hours.
• You may have a slight temperature for 2 days.
• You can expect a small amount of vaginal bleeding that will be pink, red or brown- this will gradually decrease.
• A heavy flow should not last more than 2 days and should be no heavier than a normal period- it is normal to pass small clots.
• You may have some menstrual-type cramps that may last for 2 days.

Hygiene

Your cervix will remain open for a few days making you most susceptible to an infection at this time- to prevent infection:

• Use sanitary pads only and change regularly- no tampons.
• You may shower or bathe.

• Most patients find that mild non-prescription drugs offer enough pain relief but, if not, you will be given a prescription for a stronger pain reliever.
• Follow your surgeon’s advice on resuming your usual medications.

• Eat light foods for the first day, such as tea, toast, soup or Jell-O® and drink extra fluids.
• After that you may resume your normal diet.
• If diabetic, follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding diet and medication.

• For the first 24 hours after your surgery, do not drive, operate heavy equipment, drink alcohol, smoke or make important decisions.
• Arrange for someone to be with you the first night at home.
• Some fatigue can be expected for a few days after your operation.
• The day after your surgery you will feel more able to be up and around- this will improve your circulation and help in your recovery.
• Be as active as you can within the limits of your discomfort.
• Ask your surgeon about returning to work.
• Refrain from sexual intercourse until vaginal bleeding stops.

Follow-Up Care

• Contact your surgeon’s office to arrange a follow-up appointment.

You need to contact your doctor if you have:

• A fever that persists after 2 days;
• Heavy flow with bright red bleeding or if you are passing large clots (the size of a plum);
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea that persists after 24 hours;
• Severe abdominal pain and cramping unrelieved by pain medications or other measures.