Endometrial Biopsy

What is an endometrial biopsy?

An endometrial biopsy is a simple procedure done to learn more about your condition by taking a sample of the lining of your uterus. The uterus is the organ at the top of the vagina. Babies develop in the uterus, and menstrual blood comes from the uterus. The lining of the uterus is called the endometrium.

When is it used?

Examples of reasons of reasons for doing this procedure are:

The uterus is bleeding too much, at the wrong times, or not at all.
You are having bleeding after menopause.
You are having trouble getting pregnant.
Your provider wants to check on the outcome of treatments you have had.

Examples of alternatives to this procedure are:

D&C (dilation and curettage, which means stretching the cervix and scraping the inside of the uterus for a tissue sample)
hysteroscopy (exam of the uterus using a thin telescopelike tube with a camera and a tool to remove part of the endometrium).

Another alternative is to choose not to have any procedure, recognizing the possible risks of your condition. You should ask your health care provider about these choices.

How do I prepare for an endometrial biopsy?

Follow instructions provided by your health care provider. Your provider may prescribe a mild pain pill to take an hour before doing the biopsy.

What happens during the procedure?

You do not need an anesthetic for this test. The procedure can be done in your health care provider's office.

Your provider will clean the cervix with antiseptic. Then he or she will gently stretch open your cervix. Your provider will insert a tiny strawlike tube into your vagina and then into the uterus through the cervix. The tube will be used to remove a sample of the inner layer of the uterine wall. Your provider will send the sample to the lab for tests. You may have mild cramps during the procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

You may leave in a few minutes after the procedure is completed. You may have some cramping and bleeding after the procedure. Mild pain medicine should help relieve any discomfort.

Ask your health care provider when you can expect to receive the biopsy results. Also ask what steps you should take and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

It is a simple office procedure that does not require any anesthesia.
Your health care provider may learn more about what is causing your symptoms. This will help your provider choose specific treatment for your problem.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

The uterus may be injured or punctured by the tool used to get a sample.
You may develop an infection or bleeding.

You should ask your provider how these risks apply to you.

When should I call my health care provider?

Call right away if:

You are bleeding heavily from the uterus.
You develop a fever over 100°F (37.8°C).
You develop a lot of pain.

Call during office hours if:

You have questions about the procedure or its result.
You want to make another appointment.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIA File WOM5230F.HTM Release 9.0/2006