Curettage is a relatively simple technique, which can be done in the gynecologist's office, with general or local anesthesia, and usually lasts between 10 and 15 minutes. However, after the technique it is necessary to stay hospitalized for up to 5 hours to recover from the effect of the anesthesia and ensure that there are no complications such as bleeding, for example.
As a result of anesthesia, the woman should return home accompanied, as drowsiness can affect the ability to make decisions or drive.
How long recovery lasts
Curettage recovery is about 3 days, and women should remain at rest to prevent complications, which are rare, but bleeding, uterine infections, perforation of the uterus, bladder, or intestinal loop may occur. In addition, it can also lead to the formation of a scar that leads to the adhesion of the walls of the uterus, altering the menstrual cycle and decreasing fertility.
During this period, it is common for the woman to feel some discomfort, especially some strong cramps that arise from the intense contraction of the uterus after the procedure.
Care after curettage
On the day of curettage it is not recommended to make efforts and therefore the woman should not go to work. The ideal is lying down, resting while reading a book or sleeping. In the next 3 days you can resume your activities, but without going to the gym. When bleeding and cramping subsides, normal activities can be resumed, including physical activity.
Then you should take extra care, such as:
- Do not use an absorbent in the first month after curettage;
- Do not use the shower head to wash the vagina;
- Do not have sex for at least 2 weeks.
The first menses after curettage is more painful and may contain small traces and clots, so some women may think they are having a new miscarriage, but in fact, these are remnants of the tissue that lined the uterus the previous month.
When to become pregnant after curettage
If curettage is done after an abortion, the woman should be kept for at least 2 weeks to 1 month and avoid pregnancy in the next 3 months. If curettage has been performed as a diagnostic test, the woman may become pregnant at the end of the first month. Learn more about when to become pregnant after curettage.
Warning signs to go to the doctor
You should see your doctor or emergency room if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Bleeding, it is necessary to change the absorbent every hour;
- Fever;
- Abdominal cramps;
- Pain that worsens rather than improves;
- Vaginal discharge with bad smell.
After curettage the uterus should take a few days to fully recover and so the next menstruation may come a little later than usual.
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