Women’s specialists: what are dilation and curettage?
Top women’s specialists in Atlanta and Alpharetta GA can perform a procedure known as a dilation and curettage, also known as a D&C, this is a minor surgery that involves opening or dilating the cervix. After dilating the cervix, the doctor uses an object called a curette to remove tissue from the lining of the uterus.
This procedure can take place at a women’s health clinic, doctor’s office, a hospital, or day surgery clinic.

Why a D&C is done
Your doctor may perform a D&C to assess the cause of any abnormal bleeding. The procedure provides a tissue sample from the uterus. The sample can then be viewed by a microscope to see whether there are any cells that are abnormal. The procedure can also be done when a patient is experiencing a miscarriage or has had one. Tissues from the pregnancy may still be in the uterus in these cases. A D&C is done to remove this tissue, which is important because the tissue may result in an infection or heavy bleeding.

What are the risks?
During the procedure, complications may arise, these risks include infection, bleeding, or perforation of the uterus, this is when the tip of an instrument will pass through the uterus wall. Problems can also occur that are related to the anesthesia that is used. These complications are rare.

After a D&C is performed after a miscarriage, in rare cases bands of scar tissues may form in the uterus. This is known as Asherman syndrome. These scar tissues are known as adhesions and they can cause changes in menstrual flow and infertility. Luckily, Asherman syndrome can often be treated with surgery.

Recovery after the procedure
After a D&C procedure, you will need to have someone else take you home. You may feel groggy for a while if you had general anesthesia and have some brief vomiting and nausea. You can start regular activities after a day or two. You should ask your doctor about any restrictions that are needed. There may be some slight cramping and light spotting for a few days afterward. This is normal. You may want to consider wearing a sanitary pad for spotting and take pain relievers.

There may also be a change to the timing of your next menstrual period. It may come either later or earlier than normal. You should delay sex and using tampons to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus until the doctor says it is ok.

You should see your doctor for a follow-up and to schedule any further treatment if necessary. You can also ask your doctor when to expect any results if any tissue was sent for a biopsy. This will usually be available within several days.

Best women’s specialists in Atlanta and Alpharetta GA
The women’s specialists say that it is normal to feel tired after the procedure. You should also move around as soon as possible, even if it feels uncomfortable. This will help to prevent any blood clots from forming in the legs and keep your muscles strong.

Contact your top Alpharetta and Atlanta OBGYN for your obstetrics and gynecology care.

Women’s specialist says that when it comes to sexual and reproductive health, it can be hard to know what's "normal" and what may be a sign of a potential health problem. Here are a few things you should always discuss with your gynecologist:

Painful periods
Women’s specialist says for many women, getting a period is an unpleasant time. Cramps, breast soreness, and headaches are just a few of the most common menstruation symptoms. But for some women, period pain goes beyond cramps and can be incredibly severe. If your periods are very painful or have been getting worse over time, it can be a sign of endometriosis or uterine fibroids. "It's important to speak with your doctor about this, as there are many solutions that can make these conditions more manageable. You don't need to suffer in silence".

Vaginal odor
While vaginal odor can be an uncomfortable topic, it's important to talk to your doctor if there is a foul or fishy smell, or if there's a change from your normal smell that seems to be lasting for a few days. "While having an odor is normal, any changes or foul smells may be a sign of bacterial overgrowth or vaginal infection.

Swelling bumps or growths "down there"
Women’s specialists confirm that when noticing a growth in your vagina or around your labia can seem worrisome. Is it ingrown hair, a pimple, a cut from shaving, or possibly something more concerning? Bumps are often benign, but it's important to have your doctor perform an examination when you feel something.

Sexual discomfort
It's very important to talk to your doctor about sexual discomfort. You may be uncomfortable bringing it up, but your gynecologist can help explain and treat your concerns.

Low libido
Women’s specialists say that low libido is more common than many women realize, it's important to speak with your gynecologist to discover the cause of your concern. Libido can sometimes be affected by the medications you take, or it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition or a side effect of a known condition. In these situations, your gynecologist can determine what medical interventions may be necessary. In these circumstances, your gynecologist can make recommendations to help you naturally increase your libido and/or refer you to an appropriate counselor.

Best women’s specialist in Atlanta and Alpharetta GA
Even if you feel embarrassed about certain issues, your gynecologist has seen and heard it all and is there to help you, not to pass judgment. Book a consultation with your top Alpharetta and Atlanta OBGYN for your obstetrics and gynecology care today.