Exercise After a D&C

How much you are allowed to do after a D&C, or dilation and curettage, depends on several factors. Exercise activities after minor surgical procedures vary depending on your individual health, the situation surrounding your surgery and your doctor's individual protocol. Check with your health care provider if you are unsure about when to begin exercising after your D&C.

Significance

Dilation and curettage, or D&C, is a minor surgical procedure done with little anesthesia. During a D&C, the doctor dilates or stretches the cervix and suctions and scrapes the inside of the uterus. The procedure usually only takes a few minutes. Most women are advised to rest the day of the surgery. However, complicating factors such as chronic heart problems, diabetes or other illnesses may affect recovery time. Your doctor will tell you when you can resume activities.

Exercise

Many women begin normal activities within a day or two of a D&C. Low-impact exercises like walking are usually fine, but your doctor will instruct you when you can begin to walk and start more strenuous activities. The Ohio State Medical Center's patient handout on D&C suggests waiting at least 3 to 5 days before doing any heavy lifting, but many surgical centers recommend waiting two weeks to begin, or resume, strenuous exercise.

Pain and Bleeding

It is common to have minor bleeding and pain after a D&C procedure. Lower back pain is normal, according to the Women & Infants' Hospital of Providence, Rhode Island. Such back pain may limit your ability to perform even simple exercises. Even if you do not have pain after your procedure, you should wait to exercise, according to your doctor's instructions.

Considerations and Warnings

Your individual health and medical condition at the time of your procedure dictates when you can resume regular activities. Consult with your surgeon or gynecologist before starting any exercise after your D&C. If you experience bleeding or pain when exercising after your procedure, stop immediately and contact your physician.