Dilation and curettage (D&C) is used to treat various uterine conditions in non-pregnant women. However, as an abortion procedure it dismembers the unborn child.

The mother's cervix (neck of the womb) has to be stretched open prior to the abortion. This can cause damage leading to the death or premature delivery of a baby in a subsequent pregnancy. According to doctors, in Britain steps are now taken in National Health Service hospital abortions to soften the cervix to minimise this risk. However, this is not required by law and it is not known whether such measures are taken in private sector abortions.

To check if any fetal parts might still be in the womb a nurse has to examine the baby's remains, but the abortion may still be incomplete with risks of haemorrhage and sepsis (Abortion hazards, GP, 11 May 1979).