Curettage, a surgical procedure performed by gynecologists to remove tissue from inside the uterus, is often preferred to terminate unwanted pregnancies.

Also known as abortion, this method essentially involves cleaning the entire uterus and, contrary to popular belief, is not only applied to pregnant women to terminate pregnancies.

What is Curettage?

Commonly known as abortion, the correct term curettage can be defined as the removal of tissue from inside the uterus. It is preferred not only for terminating unwanted pregnancies but also for abnormal vaginal bleeding and many other treatment approaches. In our country, curettage for elective termination of pregnancy is legal up to the 10th week of pregnancy.

How is Curettage Performed?

Curettage is generally performed under sedation anesthesia using hollow cannulas. A syringe or electric vacuum device is attached to the external end of the plastic cannula to clean unwanted tissue inside the uterus. Compared to methods used in previous years, it is much safer and less risky. The chances of complications such as bleeding and infection are low.

The procedure is carried out in the following order:

First, the patient is placed on the gynecological table and covered with a sterile drape. The vagina is cleaned with a sterile solution. Then, a disposable speculum is inserted into the vagina. The cervix is opened, and special plastic cannulas with hollow ends are inserted into the uterus.

The uterus is cleaned through the cannula, and negative pressure is applied with a syringe. Ultrasound is used for control. If everything is complete, the speculum is removed and the curettage procedure is concluded. After the procedure, the patient is rested and observed for 1 to 2 hours.

What are the Risks of Curettage?

• Bleeding
• Retained tissue
• Infection
• Asherman’s syndrome, which causes adhesions inside the uterus
• Perforation of the uterus
• Continuation of pregnancy
• Hematometra (accumulation of blood in the uterus)

All of these are rare but possible complications of the curettage procedure.

What Should Be Considered After Curettage?

• The patient can use the toilet after the procedure.
• Cleaning after using the toilet should be done with warm water from front to back.
• The genital area should be gently dried and not left wet.
• Pads should be used to monitor bleeding after curettage.
• Bleeding lasting 10 to 15 days is normal. If there is a foul odor and high fever, there may be an infection risk and a doctor should be consulted immediately.
• It is safe to take a standing shower after curettage.
• Menstruation usually returns 4 to 6 weeks after curettage.
• A follow-up appointment with a doctor is necessary 10 days after the procedure, especially after receiving pathology results.