The day before - The day before a D&C your doctor might apply a special substance to the cervix to soften and dilate the cervix, which may cause abdominal pain and discomfort.  Or your doctor may want to start dilating your cervix before surgery. If so, a slender rod (called laminaria) will be inserted into the opening of the cervix. It will be left in several hours. The rod absorbs fluid from the cervix. This causes the cervix to swell and the opening to widen.

Before the procedure - Before your doctor begins the D&C, you may receive some type of anesthesia, either local, general or regional. If you choose a general anesthesia, you will not be awake during the procedure. You will receive medication either through an intravenous (IV) line or a mask. If you choose a local anesthesia, you will be awake during the procedure. If you choose a regional anesthesia, the area around the cervix may be numbed with medication. You and your doctor will agree which type of anethesia is best for you. 

During the procedure - During the D and C, you will lie on your back and your legs will be placed in stirrups. The doctor will then insert a speculum into your vagina. Your doctor might then take a PAP swab of the cervix to be sent to a pathologist for testing.  The cervix is then next in place with a clamp. The cervix is then slowly opened. The uterine tissue lining is removed, either with via a curette or via suction. The uterine sample can be viewed under a microscope to tell whether any cells are abnormal

After the procedure - After a D&C, the anesthetic will wear off and you will be able to go home after you rest in a recovery area.  You will not be able to drive yourself, and will need someone to drive you home. 

It's normal to experience mild cramping and spotting or light bleeding after a D&C.  Also, your next menstrual period may not occur at the regular time as a new uterine lining builds up. Your period may be early or late.  Until your cervix returns to its normal size, bacteria can enter the uterus and cause infection. It is important not to put anything into your vagina after the procedure. Ask your doctor when you can have sex or use tampons again.

Follow up appointment - Finally, make an appointment with your doctor soon after surgery to discuss the results. If further treatment is needed, your doctor will discuss it with you.