Endometrial biopsy
What is an endometrial biopsy?
It is a procedure done in the clinic. It is done to take a small part of the lining of the uterus (endometrium). The tissue is then sent to the lab to see if it is normal.
Why is it done?
It is most often done to diagnosis the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.
This can be:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after menopause
It also may be done following a miscarriage or as part of an infertility work-up.
How is it done?
- A speculum will be inserted into the vagina.
- The vagina and opening of the uterus (cervix) are cleansed with a soapy solution to reduce the chances of infection.
- Then a small tube is inserted into the uterus and a small sample of the lining is obtained.
- The actual biopsy takes less than 1 minute. Sometimes more will be done if the doctor cannot get the tissue.
Will it hurt?
Women vary in the degree of discomfort that they feel. Most people have mild to moderate cramping. Some women have severe cramping during the procedure. The cramping will lessen shortly after the biopsy is finished.
You can get pain medicine if you need. Please talk about this with your health care provider before the procedure.
What can I expect after the procedure?
You may have some dull cramping in your lower abdomen for a short time after. You may also have light bleeding for several hours to several days. This is normal.
For 2 days, do not:
- Use tampons
- Have sex
- Put into your vagina.
- This is to prevent infections.
Call the Women’s Health Center at 1-319-356-2294 if you have:
- Prolonged or heavy bleeding
- Such as soaking a maxi pad in 1 hour or less
- Fever over 100 degrees
- Chills
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Severe abdominal pain
If you are having periods, your next period may be earlier or later than usual.
When will I find out the results?
The results of your biopsy will be ready in about 2 weeks.
Your doctor will contact you by mail or telephone with the results.
You will also be given a return appointment for further care, if needed.