The Association of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeons

…dedicated to safe, state-of-the-art surgery and health life-styles for women of all ages

R. Wayne Whitted MD, MPH

Paul A. Pietro MD

8740 N Kendall Dr. Suite 101

Miami, Florida 33176

Phone: 305-596-3744

www.floridaamigos.com

PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOWING SUCTION CURETTAGE

You have just had a vacuum curettage which is like a dilation and curettage (D & C or “womb scraping”). The

operation involved inserting a plastic catheter into your uterus and removing the inner lining of your uterus by

means of suction (similar to a vacuum cleaner).

This procedure should remove an early pregnancy, but it is nevertheless possible for a pregnancy to continue (in

rare circumstances). For this reason you should report back to this office in 6 weeks if you have not had a

menstrual period by then.

You will be given a prescription for:

1. Tablets to keep your uterus well-contracted and control bleeding. Take methergine (ergonovine) 0.2 mg

every four hours for the first 24 hours

2. Tablets to relieve the abdominal/pelvic cramps that you may have for one or two days. Take Darvocet N-

100, 1 or 2 tablets as needed for cramps every 3-4 hours. Do not drive if you have taken this medication.

Cramps may last for several days.

3. Tablets to prevent infection. Doxycycline 100 mgs by mouth twice per day for 3 days.

You can expect bleeding equivalent or slightly more than your menstrual loss for four or five days followed by a

week or so of spotting. Use only sanitary napkins during this time. Do not use tampons as this may make you at

risk for uterine infection.

The day following your procedure, you may resume full activities and a full diet except:

1. Do not have intercourse for 2 full weeks.

2. Do not take a tub bath for 1 week (showers are ok)

3. Do not douche

Notify my office if any of the following occurs:

1. Temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit

2. Severe abdominal pain

3. Excessive vaginal bleeding

Since it is more desirable to prevent pregnancy than to interrupt an unwanted pregnancy, birth control methods are

available.