An endometrial biopsy is a quick procedure to collect a small sample of the lining of your uterus (endometrium). It helps diagnose causes of abnormal bleeding, check for cancer, or assess hormone effects. This is a simple and quick procedure performed in a clinic that takes 5-10 minutes.
Why is it Performed?
Your gynaecologist may recommend this test if you have:
- Abnormal uterine bleeding (heavy, irregular, or postmenopausal bleeding).
- Suspected endometrial cancer or hyperplasia (thickened lining).
- Infertility evaluation (to check for hormonal imbalances).
- Monitoring hormone therapy (e.g., tamoxifen use).
Before the Procedure
- Timing: Avoid scheduling during your period.
- Avoid for 24 hours: Vaginal creams, douches, or intercourse.
- Medications:
- Inform your gynaecologist if you take blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin).
- You may be advised to take pain relief (e.g., ibuprofen) 30–60 minutes before.
- Pregnancy test: Required if there’s any chance you could be pregnant.
During the Procedure
- Positioning: You lie on an exam table, similar to a smear test.
- Speculum insertion: A plastic tool gently opens the vagina to view the cervix.
- Biopsy:
- A thin tube (pipelle) is passed through the cervix into the uterus.
- A small sample of the endometrium is suctioned or scraped.
- You may feel cramping (similar to period pain) for a few seconds.
- Completion: The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What to expect:
- Mild to moderate cramping (usually brief).
- No anaesthesia is typically needed, but a local anaesthetic may be used.
After the Procedure
- Recovery: Rest for 10–15 minutes; most leave immediately.
- Common side effects:
- Light bleeding/spotting for 1–2 days.
- Mild cramping (relieved with over-the-counter painkillers).
- Self-care:
- Use sanitary pads (no tampons) until bleeding stops.
- Avoid sex, swimming, or baths for 48 hours to reduce infection risk.
Risks and Complications
- Common (temporary): Cramping, spotting.
- Rare but serious:
- Infection (symptoms: fever, foul-smelling discharge).
- Heavy bleeding (>1 pad/hour).
- Uterine perforation (extremely rare).
Getting Your Results
- Results take 3–7 days. Your doctor will explain:
- Normal: No abnormal cells detected.
- Abnormal: May indicate infection, polyps, hyperplasia, or cancer.
- Next steps: Further tests (e.g., ultrasound, hysteroscopy) or treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How painful is it?
A: Most women feel brief cramping. Pain varies—discuss anxiety with your doctor.
Q: Can I drive home?
A: Yes, unless you feel unwell.
Q: Does it affect fertility?
A: No—it does not harm future pregnancy chances.
Q: What if I’m on my period?
A: Reschedule—blood can interfere with results.
eGynaecologist Advice:
- You should contact your gynaecologist if you develop severe pain, raised temperature, heavy bleeding, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge after the endometrial biopsy procedure.
- You should seek gynaecological consultation regarding ongoing monitoring and alternatives of transvaginal scan and direct visualisation of uterine cavity by hysteroscopy where endometrial biopsy results are inadequate.
