When Do You Need an Endometrial Biopsy Procedure?

There are some conditions women face that require more specific diagnostic testing. Learning you may need an invasive procedure like an endometrial biopsy can be scary; but you can relieve your anxiety by learning what to expect before it’s done.

At Alpha OB GYN, our experienced gynecologist Sowmya Reddy, MD, FACOG, and our team perform in-office endometrial biopsy procedures and will be with you every step of the way.

What happens during an endometrial biopsy procedure

An endometrial biopsy is a procedure to remove a small sample of tissue from your endometrium, the technical term for the lining of your uterus. This tissue is later evaluated under a microscope to identify or rule out abnormalities in the cells.

During your procedure, you will lie on an exam table just like you would during a pelvic exam. Dr. Reddy will insert a speculum into your vagina, so she has access to your cervix. She then inserts a thin tube through the cervical opening. This tube suctions small pieces of endometrial tissue that Dr. Reddy will send to a medical lab for evaluation.

It’s common to feel some pressure and cramping during the procedure.

Why you might need an endometrial biopsy procedure

An endometrial biopsy procedure is the most common diagnostic test we use to diagnose endometrial cancer. This type of cancer starts in the lining of the uterus when cells mutate abnormally.  

The cause of endometrial cancer isn’t well understood, but your risk for it can increase if you have a personal or family history of cancer or start menstruating before age 12. Other risk factors for endometrial cancer include:

• Obesity
• Older age
• No history of pregnancy
• Taking hormone therapy for breast cancer

Cancer that begins in the endometrium can spread to other areas of your body if not detected early. For this reason, we might recommend an endometrial biopsy procedure if you have symptoms of endometrial cancer, such as unexplained heavy or irregular bleeding during your period, bleeding between periods and after menopause, or chronic pelvic pain.

In some cases, an endometrial biopsy procedure may be part of diagnostic testing for infertility.

Your recovery from an endometrial biopsy procedure 

An endometrial biopsy is a same-day, in-office procedure, and you can expect to go home soon after it’s complete. For several days after your biopsy procedure, you may have some spotting or bleeding. Many women also experience some mild cramping for a few days. We can recommend over-the-counter medications you can take to stay comfortable, and you can wear a sanitary pad until the bleeding stops.

It’s important that you don’t use tampons or douche after your procedure. You should also avoid sex based on our recommendations. Other activities that don’t require heavy lifting or other strenuous movements are okay and you can resume your usual diet right away.

Like any invasive procedure, there are some risks associated with an endometrial biopsy. If you have any foul-smelling vaginal discharge, fever, or excessive bleeding after your procedure, you should let our office know immediately.

To learn more about the diagnostic benefits of an endometrial biopsy procedure, call the Alpha OB GYN office nearest you, or book a consultation online today.