It may
be painful as the tube is passed through your cervix
, and you may feel a cramping pain as the sample is being taken from the lining of the womb. It is exactly the same pain as a period, because the pain is caused by the same muscles of the uterus contracting.
How can I make my endometrial biopsy less painful?
Usually no anesthesia is required, but
taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) 30 to 60 minutes prior to the procedure
can help reduce cramping and pain. In some cases, a small amount of lidocaine anesthetic is inserted into the uterine cavity to minimize discomfort.
How long does it take to recover from an endometrial biopsy?
Don't douche, use tampons, or have sex for
2 to 3 days
after an endometrial biopsy, or for a time recommended by your healthcare provider. You may also have other limits on your activity, including no strenuous activity or heavy lifting.
Do endometrial biopsies 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.
How bad does a uterus biopsy hurt?
An endometrial biopsy can be
uncomfortable
. Your doctor may recommend that you take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or another pain reliever 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure. Your doctor may also give you a light sedative before the biopsy.
How long does the pain last after endometrial biopsy?
How will I feel after an endometrial biopsy? As above, you may have some crampy period pains in the lower part of your tummy on and off for a day or two after the procedure. You may also have some light bleeding, like a period. This does not usually last
longer than a few days
.
What percentage of endometrial biopsies are cancerous?
Many women who have symptoms of endometrial cancer (vaginal bleeding after menopause or abnormal menstrual bleeding) may have a biopsy that shows precancerous changes of the endometrium, called complex hyperplasia with atypia. Risk is high that
25 to 50 percent
of these women will go on to develop endometrial cancer.
What happens if your endometrial biopsy is positive?
While an endometrial biopsy is safe, there is a chance of bleeding and infection. The wall of your uterus could also get nicked by the tools used during the biopsy, but this is very rare. If you think you may be pregnant, make sure to tell your doctor ahead of time. The biopsy could
cause you to miscarry
.
What should I do after biopsy?
- Lift anything heavier than 5 pounds (2.3 kilograms).
- Do any strenuous exercises, such as running or jogging.
- Bathe, swim, or soak the biopsy site under water. You may shower 24 hours after your biopsy.
How long does it take for your cervix to heal after a biopsy?
During a cone biopsy, your doctor will remove a small, cone-shaped part of your cervix. They will study it under a microscope to look for abnormal cells. It usually takes
about 4 to 6 weeks
for your cervix to heal after this procedure.
Why can't I use a tampon after endometrial biopsy?
After an endometrial biopsy, some women experience light bleeding, so you may want to wear a sanitary pad for a few days. Keep in mind, however, that you
shouldn't
use tampons during this time. With regard to pain, mild cramping is fairly common, so you may want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Can you be put to sleep for an endometrial biopsy?
This procedure may be done with or without anesthesia. This is medicine that allows
you to sleep during
the procedure. You lie on your back with your feet in stirrups, similar to having a pelvic exam.
What are they looking for in an endometrial biopsy?
In an endometrial biopsy, a small piece of tissue from the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) is removed and examined under a microscope
for cancer and other cell irregularities
. The procedure helps find the cause of a woman's heavy or irregular bleeding.
Why do they scrape your uterus?
Endometrial ablation is a procedure that surgically destroys (ablates) the lining of your uterus (endometrium). The goal of endometrial ablation is
to reduce menstrual flow
. In some women, menstrual flow may stop completely. No incisions are needed for endometrial ablation.
Should I have a hysterectomy for endometrial hyperplasia?
If you have atypical endometrial hyperplasia, your specialist will probably recommend you have a
hysterectomy
. This is an operation to remove the womb. This is to prevent you developing a cancer of the lining of the womb.
Can I take a bath after endometrial biopsy?
Fortunately, the cramping is often short-lived and subsides quickly. It's important to note that your period may be heavier than usual following the procedure. Also, you should not douche or engage in intercourse for five days following the biopsy.
Bathing and showering is permissible.
