Dilatation and Curettage (D&C) in Grand Rapids, Michigan

A dilatation and curettage (D&C) is a common gynecological procedure in which the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is gently scraped or suctioned. This is done after the cervix (the opening of the uterus) is widened using instruments called dilators. Tissue from the uterus may be sent to a laboratory for analysis.

In Grand Rapids, MI, D&C procedures are routinely performed by OB/GYN specialists at major health systems such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health.

A D&C can be used as both a diagnostic test and a treatment. Your Grand Rapids gynecologist may recommend a D&C for:

  • Abnormal menstrual bleeding, including:
    • Very heavy periods (menorrhagia)
    • Bleeding between periods
    • Bleeding after menopause
  • Investigation of infertility, to help evaluate the uterine lining
  • Investigation of possible uterine infection
  • Management of pregnancy-related conditions, such as:
    • Incomplete miscarriage (incomplete abortion)
    • Surgical abortion when combined with suction
    • Incomplete medication abortion

Because Michigan experiences cold, long winters and women may delay care during severe weather or flu season, abnormal bleeding or miscarriage symptoms are sometimes evaluated later than ideal. Local OB/GYN teams in Grand Rapids are experienced in managing these situations safely.

Most D&Cs are considered minor procedures and are often done as day surgery in local hospitals or outpatient surgery centers, usually under general anesthesia.

Where D&C Procedures Are Performed in Grand Rapids

Common locations where D&C procedures may be offered include:

  • Corewell Health hospitals and women’s centers in Grand Rapids
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids OB/GYN clinics and surgical suites
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health outpatient surgery centers
  • Mercy Health women’s health clinics
  • Independent OB/GYN practices in Kent County

Your primary care provider or OB/GYN can help you choose the most convenient location based on your insurance, medical needs, and where you live in the Grand Rapids metro area.

How a D&C Procedure Is Done

Before the Procedure

Your Grand Rapids OB/GYN or surgeon will:

  • Review your medical history, medications, and allergies
  • Discuss why the D&C is needed and what to expect
  • Possibly order blood tests, a pregnancy test, or a pelvic ultrasound
  • Give you instructions about eating and drinking before anesthesia
  • Review any Michigan-specific consent forms related to pregnancy care or surgical abortion, if relevant

During the Procedure

A typical D&C includes these steps:

  1. Anesthesia

    • You are usually given a general anesthetic so you are asleep and do not feel pain.
    • In some cases, a local or regional anesthetic with sedation may be used.

  2. Pelvic exam

    • Once you are anesthetized, your provider examines your uterus to determine its size and position.

  3. Inspection of the vulva and vagina

    • The vulva and vaginal walls are examined.
    • A speculum is inserted into the vagina so the cervix can be clearly seen.

  4. Dilatation of the cervix

    • The cervix is gently widened using surgical dilators.

  5. Removal of uterine tissue

    • A small instrument (curette) and/or suction device is used to remove:
      • The endometrial lining, and/or
      • Any remaining pregnancy tissue, if the D&C is related to miscarriage or abortion.

  6. Sending tissue to the lab

    • Samples are sent to a pathology laboratory (often within the local Grand Rapids hospital system) for analysis, if needed.

The procedure itself usually takes 15–30 minutes, but your total time at the hospital or surgery center will be longer due to preparation and recovery.

Immediately After a D&C

In most cases in Grand Rapids, you will:

  • Stay in a recovery area for a short time while the anesthesia wears off
  • Be discharged home the same day

Because you have had anesthesia:

  • You must have someone drive you home
  • You should not drive, drink alcohol, or make major decisions for at least 24 hours

Your treating team will:

  • Check your vital signs and bleeding
  • Give you written instructions for self-care
  • Explain any prescriptions, such as pain medication or antibiotics
  • Arrange follow-up with your OB/GYN or primary care provider in Grand Rapids

Possible Complications of a D&C

Serious Complications (Rare)

Serious complications are uncommon but can include:

  • Damage to the uterus (perforation)
  • Injury to the cervix
  • Injury to other pelvic organs
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Severe infection
  • Reaction to medications or anesthesia, including allergic reactions

If you have a history of heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure—conditions that are relatively common in Michigan—your team will take special precautions.

More Common, Mild Issues

Minor risks that can occur with any procedure include:

  • Mild to moderate cramping
  • Light to moderate vaginal bleeding for a few days
  • Nausea or grogginess from anesthesia
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)

If you suspect a UTI (burning with urination, frequent urination, pelvic discomfort), contact your Grand Rapids provider promptly.

Taking Care of Yourself at Home After a D&C

Your doctor or surgeon will give you specific instructions, but general guidelines include:

Expected Symptoms

  • Mild cramping or abdominal discomfort is common
  • Light bleeding or spotting for several days is normal

You should:

  • Take any pain medication as advised
  • If prescribed antibiotics, take the full course, even if you feel better

Activity and Hygiene

For about two weeks after your D&C, or until your doctor says it is safe:

  • Shower instead of taking a bath
  • Avoid sexual intercourse
  • Use sanitary pads instead of tampons
  • Avoid swimming in pools, lakes, or hot tubs
    • This is especially important in West Michigan, where lake and pool use is common in warmer months.

These steps help reduce the risk of infection, which can be higher when the cervix has recently been dilated.

When to Call a Doctor in Grand Rapids

Contact your doctor, OB/GYN, or seek urgent care at a Grand Rapids emergency department if you have:

  • Fever or chills
  • Increasing pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Heavy bleeding (soaking a pad in an hour or passing large clots)
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Trouble urinating or signs of a UTI
  • Dizziness, fainting, or feeling very unwell

If it is after hours and you are in the Grand Rapids area, you can go to the nearest emergency room (such as Corewell Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids) or an urgent care clinic.

Long-Term Outlook After a D&C

A D&C is generally safe, and most women in Grand Rapids recover fully without long-term problems. The long-term outlook depends on:

  • Your underlying condition (for example, abnormal bleeding, miscarriage, or infection)
  • Your overall health
  • The results of any lab tests or pathology

Your doctor will:

  • Review your pathology results with you
  • Discuss any additional treatment, such as hormone therapy, further imaging, or another procedure
  • Talk about future fertility, if that is a concern
  • Help coordinate ongoing care with local specialists in Grand Rapids if needed

Local Resources and Getting Help in Grand Rapids, MI

If you need information or a referral for a D&C in Grand Rapids:

  • Your primary care doctor or OB/GYN
  • Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health women’s health services
  • Kent County Health Department – can provide information on reproductive health resources and local clinics
  • Grand Rapids Public Health and community health centers – may offer low-cost or sliding-scale women’s health services

If you do not currently have a doctor, you can:

  • Search for “OB/GYN Grand Rapids MI” or “women’s health clinic Grand Rapids”
  • Call local hospital referral lines for help finding a provider
  • Use Michigan-based health plan directories to locate in-network care

Summary

A dilatation and curettage (D&C) is a common, usually outpatient procedure performed by OB/GYN specialists across Grand Rapids, Michigan to diagnose and treat conditions like abnormal bleeding, miscarriage, and uterine infection. With proper preparation, follow-up, and self-care, most women recover quickly and safely. Always follow the guidance of your local Grand Rapids healthcare team and seek prompt care if you notice any signs of complications.