Endometrial Biopsy(Biopsy, Endometrial)

by :: Editorial Staff and Contributors

:: Click here to view an animated version of this procedure.

Definition

This is a procedure to remove a tissue sample from the lining of the uterus (womb).

The Endometrium

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Reasons for Procedure

Some reasons for an endometrial biopsy include:

Possible Complications

If you are planning to have an endometrial biopsy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Damage to the uterus (rare)

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

  • If you are pregnant, the test cannot be done
  • If you have a narrow opening from the vagina to the uterus
  • If you have had :: radiation therapy to the area

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the procedure.

What to Expect
Prior to Procedure

You may need to schedule the biopsy for a certain time during your menstrual cycle.

Your doctor may do the following:

  • Physical and pelvic exam
  • Blood tests
  • Urine test

Leading up to your procedure, you may be advised to:

  • Take a pain reliever one hour before the procedure.
  • Wear or bring a sanitary pad to the health clinic.

Anesthesia

Usually none is needed. Sometimes local anesthesia is used to numb the cervix.

Description of the Procedure

You will lie on a table with your feet in foot rests. The doctor will use a speculum to look into the vagina. An instrument called a tenaculum will be used to grasp the cervix. A flexible, thin, suction tube will be passed through the vagina and into the uterus. The doctor will suction out a small sample of endometrial tissue.

Immediately After Procedure

After the biopsy, you may feel lightheaded. Lying down for 5-10 minutes will help. Once you feel better, you will be able to go home.

How Long Will It Take?

About 10-15 minutes

Will It Hurt?

You may feel some cramping and pressure during the biopsy. Your doctor may give you pain medicine after the procedure.

Post-procedure Care

When you return home after the procedure, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

  • Expect some cramping and bleeding. Use sanitary napkins. Do not use tampons.
  • Ask your doctor when you can resume:
    • Using tampons
    • Having sex
  • Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions .

Your doctor will receive results in about a week. She will work with you to create a treatment plan.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Excessive bleeding (more than your normal menstrual period or saturating a pad within one hour)
  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Severe pain
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
In case of emergency, call 911 .

RESOURCES:

American Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.org/

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
http://www.acog.org/

CANADIAN RESOURCES

Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html/

Women's Health Matters
http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca/

References:

Abnormal uterine bleeding. Family Doctor.org. Available at: http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/women/reproductive/menstrual/470.html . Updated September 2006. Accessed June 4, 2008.

How is endometrial cancer diagnosed? American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/ . Updated November 2006. Accessed June 4, 2008.


Last reviewed October 2009 by :: Ganson Purcell Jr., MD, FACOG, FACPE

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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