If you must have a dilation and curettage, or D and C, your doctor may recommend that you to take folic acid and prenatal vitamins afterwards for multiple reasons, depending on why you required the surgery. Women have D and Cs to treat a variety of medical issues; ask your health care provider about taking prenatal vitamins and folic acid afterward to treat anemia and prevent complications with future pregnancies.
Dilation and Curettage
A dilation and curettage is a surgical procedure in which the woman's cervix is mechanically opened, or dilated, and the contents of her uterus are removed. The surgeon may remove the uterine contents using suction or by gently scraping the inside of the uterine wall. Women require D and Cs for many different reasons, including to complete a miscarriage, treat heavy bleeding, test for uterine cancer or perform an elective abortion.
Birth Defects
Women who undergo a D and C to complete a miscarriage or pregnancy termination are physically capable of becoming pregnant again. Women who may become pregnant should take 400 mcg of folic acid each day to reduce the risk having a baby with birth defects, like spina bifida. You can take folic acid as a separate supplement, but it is also present in B-vitamin complex and prenatal vitamins. Women who have had a baby with neural tube defects should take additional folic acid beyond 400 mcg. Ask your health care provider how much you should take if you are in this situation.
Anemia
If your D and C is required because you have a history of heavy periods, are bleeding after menopause or if you had heavy bleeding or retention of placental parts after pregnancy, you may be anemic. Folic acid and vitamin B-12 help treat anemia, as does supplemental iron. Your physician may recommend that you take folic acid either separately or with a prenatal vitamin to help treat anemia. Prenatal vitamins contain some iron, but you may require additional iron supplementation.
Tips
Folic acid and prenatal vitamins offer benefits to women of all ages and medical backgrounds. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of all pregnancies are unplanned. No matter the reason for your D and C, if you are sexually active and premenopausal, take folic acid or a prenatal vitamin daily. Get into the habit of taking your vitamins each day. Set an alarm on your phone to remind you. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to promote the health of your uterus.
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