Postoperative Care and Recovery Guidelines after Dilation and Curettage
Sep 07, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
After a patient undergoes a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure, measures should be taken regarding daily rest, dietary adjustment, and regular follow-up examinations. The postoperative diet should primarily consist of foods high in vitamins and protein, such as fish, shrimp, and chicken, which are rich in high-quality protein. Patients should consume more fresh fruits and vegetables and avoid overly spicy or greasy foods to prevent interference with wound healing.
Following a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure, patients should adopt appropriate measures regarding daily rest, dietary adjustments, and scheduled follow-up visits. Specific recommendations are as follows:
1. Rest: Patients should ensure approximately eight hours of adequate sleep per day after surgery. When necessary, sleep quality may be improved using eye masks, earplugs, or other aids. Patients must avoid excessive physical exertion and should refrain from sexual intercourse for at least one month, resuming only after confirming full recovery.
2. Dietary adjustments: Postoperative diets should emphasize foods rich in vitamins and high-quality protein—such as fish, shrimp, and chicken—as well as abundant fresh fruits and vegetables. Patients should avoid excessively spicy or greasy foods, which may impair wound healing.
3. Scheduled follow-up visits: After surgery, patients should closely monitor abdominal pain and vaginal discharge—including volume, color, and consistency. Vaginal bleeding exceeding the volume of a normal menstrual period is considered abnormal and warrants prompt medical evaluation. Patients are generally advised to schedule a follow-up visit 7–10 days after the D&C procedure.
