Day theatre procedure
About this service
Dilatation and curettage, commonly known as a D&C, is a procedure to sample or clear the lining of the uterus, most often used to investigate abnormal bleeding, and it is available in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic. The cervix is gently dilated and a sample of the uterine lining is taken or the cavity is cleared, helping your doctor diagnose the cause of irregular, heavy, or postmenopausal bleeding, or to manage certain pregnancy-related conditions.
The procedure is carried out in our on-site day theatre under general or regional anaesthesia. Your doctor will explain the reason for your D&C and discuss the findings once results are available.
What to expect
- An assessment and sometimes an ultrasound before the procedure
- General or spinal anaesthesia given by an anaesthetist before the two-stage sampling begins
- Samples from the cervical canal and the uterine cavity are collected separately
- Light bleeding or cramping afterwards is normal for a few days
- Your doctor will discuss any laboratory results and follow-up care
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Heavy, irregular, or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Postmenopausal bleeding that needs investigation
- Bleeding after a miscarriage or incomplete pregnancy loss
- Abnormal findings on ultrasound of the uterine lining
- A doctor's recommendation to sample the womb lining for diagnosis
Frequently asked questions
What is a fractional D&C?
Tissue from the cervical canal and from the body of the uterus is collected separately and sent as two samples. This helps your doctor tell whether abnormal cells are coming from the cervix or from the womb lining.
Why is a D&C recommended for postmenopausal bleeding?
Any bleeding after menopause needs the lining checked, and a D&C gives a full sample when an ultrasound or a smaller office biopsy is not enough. Most results are benign, but checking early matters.
How long do D&C laboratory results take?
Results usually return within one to two weeks. Your doctor will contact you or see you to explain the findings and any treatment needed.
For referring doctors
Eastgate Clinic's day theatre in Windhoek is equipped for dilatation and curettage procedures, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided on site. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your dilatation and curettage (d&c)?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.