Endometrial Biopsy Overview

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

The Endometrium © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

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.

RESOURCES:

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

The American Congress 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.