Outpatient sample
Endometrial biopsy
A small sample of the womb lining is taken in the clinic to investigate heavy or abnormal bleeding or postmenopausal bleeding. Quick to perform and usually well tolerated, with results discussed at a follow-up appointment.
- In clinic
- 10 minutes
- No anaesthesia (or local in selected cases)
Overview
About this procedure.
An endometrial biopsy is the quickest, gentlest way to get a tissue sample from the lining of the womb. Most patients describe it as similar to a smear test, with a brief cramping sensation lasting under a minute.
Preparing for your appointment: take paracetamol or ibuprofen an hour before. Let us know if you have any concerns about pain; local anaesthetic to the cervix can be added if helpful.
Setting
In clinic
Duration
10 minutes
Anaesthetic
No anaesthesia (or local in selected cases)
Indications
What it's for.
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Heavy or irregular periods
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Bleeding between periods
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Postmenopausal bleeding
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Thickening of the womb lining seen on ultrasound
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Surveillance of endometrial hyperplasia under treatment
On the day
How it's done.
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A speculum is used, similar to a smear test
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A thin, soft plastic device (Pipelle) is passed through the cervix into the womb
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Gentle suction collects a small sample of the lining
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The whole procedure takes around 30 seconds to a minute
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Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis
Recovery
After your procedure.
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Period-like cramping for a few hours is common
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Light spotting for one to two days
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Paracetamol or ibuprofen helps
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Return to normal activity immediately
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Results usually available within 7–10 days
Benefits
Why this approach.
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Quick and well tolerated by most patients
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Avoids general anaesthetic and time off work
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Definitive tissue diagnosis
Risks
What to be aware of.
- Cramping during and shortly after the procedure
- Light bleeding
- Infection (uncommon)
- Perforation of the womb (very rare)
Related conditions
Often seen alongside.