Loss analysis in bent graded-index optical slab waveguides is given using the modal-matching method. The conformal mapping replaces curved structure by an equivalent straight waveguide with a modified index profile. For this planar waveguide structure, the normal modes are calculated using a multilayer approximation method. The wave incident on the bend is expanded initially into a finite set of normal modes of the equivalent straight structure, and the transverse fields are matched across the junction. The numerical results show the loss formation in the graded-index waveguides and its dependence of the effective index of the corresponding straight waveguide.